Ultrasonography

Ultrasound imaging, also called sonography, is a non-invasive procedure which uses sound waves to create real-time images of the human body. Ultrasound works like sonar by bouncing sound waves off an object. A computer interprets the reflected sound waves and forms an image. No x-rays are involved.
Ultrasounds are frequently used to:

• Evaluate internal organs for tumors, cysts, abscesses, inflammation and obstruction.
• Locate stones in the gallbladder, bile ducts, or kidneys.
• Detect abnormalities of the heart valves.
• Detect aneurysms and impaired blood flow from blood clots or arteriosclerosis.
• Detect early pregnancy and study developing babies.