Serving the Lowcountry and Coastal Empire of Georgia and South Carolina.

Ultrasound

What is Ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a diagnostic procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves beyond human hearing capability to produce high-quality images of soft tissues and motion within the body. Ultrasound involves no X-rays and can provide medical information that, in the past, may have required surgery.

Ultrasound can detect aneurysms, blood clots, damaged heart tissue, abnormal growths and diseased tissue; during pregnancy a baby's size, weight, position and physical condition can be determined. Ultrasound also is used to diagnose and treat muscle injuries and some joint problems.

How Does Ultrasound Work?

The ultrasound procedure is simple and painless. A hand-held transducer emitting silent, high frequency sound waves is placed against the body and slowly passed over the area being examined. The sound waves pass through the skin and into the body. The returning sound waves or echoes are separated and identified by the transducer, then changed into electrical energy. Sophisticated equipment produces images on a video monitor and then on paper or film.

Preparing for Your Ultrasound

Most ultrasound exams require little or no preparation. In some cases, you may be asked to avoid gas-producing foods for one to two days prior to the procedure, drink specific types and amounts of fluids, empty your bladder or follow other special instructions.

Your Ultrasound Experience

While you lie on a comfortable examination table, your technologist will apply a warm gel to your skin for air-free transducer contact. The technologist will then gently pass the transducer over the specified exam area several times. The exam will last about 30 minutes.

Payment and Insurance

Please remember to bring your insurance information.

SouthCoast Health participates in most major insurance plans. We will be pleased to bill your insurance company for you, upon request.

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