Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create medical images of organs and tissues within the body. Most people relate to ultrasound exams with pregnancy because ultrasound technology offers an expectant mother her earliest view of her unborn child. Medical professionals also use ultrasound sonography to capture real-time assessments of anatomy such as the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, muscular skeletal anatomy, and several other structures.
Before the exam starts, the patient usually lies on an exam table. The ultrasound technologist applies a sound wave conducting gel to the skin around the examination area. The technologist then presses a transducer device against the skin, which projects sound waves toward the organs, joint or tissue to be examined.
Ultrasound examinations involve minimal risks. Unlike x-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans, ultrasound uses no radiation—a comforting fact for mothers observing their developing child.
Ultrasound in the Emergency Room
Ultrasound imaging has been a critical tool for emergency room providers for more than two decades. When patients arrive at YRMC with any type of traumatic abdominal injuries, heart attack symptoms, possible blood clots, indications of blood-vessel aneurisms, eye injuries or severe stomach pain, a point-of-care ultrasound exam helps an emergency room provider make a quick diagnosis. Ultrasound sonography has reduced the need for exploratory surgery while also providing a doctor with real time results.
Ultrasound Guided Procedures
When a provider such as a spine specialist needs to place an impeccable spinal nerve block, ultrasound is the perfect tool to visualize the needle as he carefully navigates the spinal cord, disks, nerves, ligaments and bones. Sonography also guides surgeons during biopsies of potential cancer growths. When joints, abscesses and cysts need aspiration, ultrasound sonography helps physicians carry out a successful procedure. Cutting-edge stem cell transplantation would be significantly limited if ultrasound was not available to ensure doctors place the correct number of stem cells in the right location with proper technique.
If you have any questions about ultrasound services available at Yuma Regional Medical Center, please call
928-336-7350 and we will connect you with someone who can help you.