Description
Sonography is a diagnostic medical test that employs high-frequency sound waves, known as ultrasound waves, to produce images of tissues, glands, organs, and blood or fluid flow within the body. This test is also called an ultrasound or sonogram.
During a sonography procedure, a device called a transducer is placed on the skin’s surface to emit ultrasound waves and capture their echoes. These waves are then converted into images by a computer. A trained technician can view, measure, and identify structures within these images, which are subsequently analyzed by a healthcare provider to diagnose potential issues or conditions.
Purpose of the Test
A sonogram captures live images of the body’s interior, functioning like a camera that takes real-time pictures of body parts or processes.
Sonography is valuable for assessing the size, shape, and density of tissues, aiding in the diagnosis of various medical conditions. Traditionally, ultrasound imaging excels at examining the abdomen without invasive procedures.
Abdominal ultrasounds are commonly used to diagnose:
Gallbladder disease or gallstones
Kidney stones or kidney disease
Liver disease
Appendicitis
Ovarian cysts
Ectopic pregnancy
Uterine growths, fibroids, and other conditions
