Ultrasound, Sonogram, or Echo:
Ultrasound imaging, also called sonogram or echo, is a painless method used to see inside the human body through the use of high-frequency sound waves. Like X-ray, MRI and CT scan, ultrasound imaging has its place as a diagnostic tool. Sound waves are recorded and displayed on a computer screen as a visual image. No radiation is involved in ultrasound imaging. Ultrasound is a useful way of examining many of the body’s internal organs, including the heart, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, bladder, arteries, veins, female and male pelvic structures, obstetric, vascular (arteries and veins) and more.
There is generally no discomfort with ultrasound procedures. A small amount of gel, warmed for your comfort, is applied to your skin in order to obtain an image.
All sonographers at Wilson N. Jones Regional Medical Center are required to be certified by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) and the State of Texas.
Overall Benefits of Ultrasound:
- Ultrasound scanning is noninvasive, does not use ionizing radiation and is usually painless
- Ultrasound scanning gives a clear picture of soft tissues that may not show up clearly on X-ray images
- Ultrasound has no known side effects and may be repeated as often as necessary if medically indicated
- Ultrasound provides real-time imaging, making it a good tool for guiding minimally invasive procedures such as needle biopsies, and needle aspirations
To schedule your next imaging procedure, please call Radiology Scheduling at (903) 870-3604.