What is ultrasound?
Ultra means high. Ultrasound is simply sound at a frequency that is above the normal human hearing range. A person can hear sound up to about 20,000 cycles per second (20 kilo hertz, or 20 kHz). As people get older, the top of their hearing range decreases to about 10 – 15 kHz. The Pathfinder™ system uses ultrasound at about 40 kHz.
Water-soluble gel will be applied to your breast to ensure good contact between your skin and the probe. A smooth surfaced, hand – held probe will scan your breast and pictures will be shown on a screen. A consultant Radiologist (specialist Doctor) will perform the ultrasound and interpret the pictures. A clinic sister or radiographer will be in attendance and you will be kept informed throughout the procedure.
Diagnostic ultrasound is the use of high frequency sound waves to visualize structures within the body. A small device called a transducer is used to send sound waves into the body, which are then reflected off of internal structures. The returning sound waves (echoes) are then sent back to the same transducer and the attached equipment electronically changes the echoes into a picture (image) of your internal structures. If your blood flow is what is being studied, audible sound as well as an image can be produced. GE Healthcare / Patient Information www.gehealthcar e.
