Ultrasound Diagnosis Procedures

With advancements in modern medicine and medical diagnosis, a steady decline in the death rates for many conditions and diseases has been noted. The overall improvement in healthy outcomes is largely due to improvements made in medical diagnosis. The first step in identifying a health issue is through the use of technology. Ultrasound machines are utilized in diagnosing, and for the on-going treatment of medical issues. These machines create a visual image of internal structures of the body through the use of high-frequency sound waves; all without an invasive procedure.

The technology behind ultrasounds is based on the sonar that was used by the Navy during the Second World War. Researchers began experimenting with sonar after the war, to see if it had possibilities in aiding in medical diagnosis. It was first used to detect cancers and other growths and tumors that otherwise might not have been discovered. It was not until the 1950s that the medical field discovered that sonar could be useful as a tool during pregnancy.

Ultrasound imaging is commonly used as a guide when withdrawing fluid from the chest, lungs or around the heart. It is also used to examine internal structures of the abdomen, such as the gallbladder, the kidneys, the ureters, liver, pancreas, spleen and the aorta. An ultrasound exam can detect fluid, tumors, cysts or abscesses in the liver or abdomen. An ultrasound is even used to evaluate the size and health of the thyroid gland in the neck. Ultrasounds have been important in determining and treating many diseases and conditions, like blood clots, pregnancy, heart disease, gallstones and tumors.

An ultrasound machine uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the internal body structures. Sound waves are sent through body tissues using a device called a transducer. Placed directly on the skin, a transducer sends sound waves through the body that are then reflected by internal structures, as reflective echoes. The echo returns to the transducer and is transmitted electrically onto a monitor. The images are then recorded. A radiologist can get a good view of internal structures and tissues without ever having to perform an invasive procedure. With nary a side effect to be reported, an ultrasound is very safe.

More about ultrasound

Ultrasound

Humans would not have the ultrasound machine or sonogram machine if it were not for animals. Many animals are gifted with the use of sonar abilities.

Pregnancy Books

Several books on pregnancy are available that allow you to record your experiences during your pregnancy. Some women want to journal the experience for each of their pregnancies; adding sonogram pictures, weights and measurements so that they can later recall the events and share them with their child and family.