How are Abdominal Ultrasound Images Obtained?
During abdominal sonography, a hand-held device called a “transducer” is placed on the area being examined and moved around. This transducer generates ultrasound and sends it through the body. It also detects the returning echoes and transmits them as electrical signals. Because one transducer continuously generates many ultrasound waves while detecting echoes, a real time image can be produced on a viewing monitor. These images can be recorded on videotape, or images can be frozen and recorded on to film. During abdominal sonography, lubricating gel is applied to the skin so that the transducer can be moved around to produce real time images. Ultrasound is similar to audible sound in that it can pass through water and human organs easily, but it can’t pass through air or bone. So gel is applied between the transducer and the skin to bridge the gap, and effectively send the ultrasound waves. Because ultrasound images are real time images, blood flow, blood vessels, bowel movement, and
Related Questions
- Why do I receive ultrasound images via SMS, email, CD, DVD, etc. at the end of my visit, instead of a printed picture like at other ultrasound facilities?
- Can I still take The EDE 2 Course if I have not yet obtained my Independent Practitioner status with the Canadian Emergency Ultrasound Society?
- How are ultrasound images processed for submission to the requesting physician?
