Ultrasound

Ultrasound Imaging for Clear, Timely Answers

Ultrasound imaging at Lahey Clinic helps your care team diagnose conditions, monitor treatment, and guide certain procedures with accuracy and care.

Ultrasound exams are often quick and comfortable. Because images are created in real time, your provider can see how structures move and function. This makes ultrasound a helpful tool for many different health concerns.

What Is an Ultrasound?

An ultrasound uses sound waves to create detailed images of organs, tissues, and blood flow inside the body. It does not use radiation.

During an ultrasound, a small handheld device called a transducer is placed on your skin. It sends high-frequency sound waves into your body. These sound waves bounce off internal structures and return to the device, creating live images on a screen.

Your provider may recommend ultrasound as a first imaging step because it is safe, widely available, and does not expose you to radiation.

Types of Ultrasound Exams

Ultrasounds can be used in many areas of care. Your provider will explain which type of ultrasound is right for you and what information it can provide.

• Abdominal ultrasound: Looks at organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys to help identify source of pain or any abnormalities.
• Musculoskeletal ultrasound: Evaluates muscles, tendons, and joints for injury or inflammation.
• Pelvic ultrasound: Examines reproductive organs to help identify causes of pelvic pain or other symptoms.
• Renal ultrasound: Looks at the kidneys and bladder for any abnormalities.
• Soft tissue ultrasound: Evaluates lumps, swelling, or changes in soft tissue.
• Thyroid ultrasound: Evaluates the thyroid gland for nodules.
• Vascular ultrasound: Evaluates blood flow in arteries and veins. This test may help detect blood clots or narrowing of blood vessels.

What To Expect During Your Exam

Most ultrasound exams take 30 to 60 minutes. You may be asked to change into a gown depending on the area being studied.

A gel will be applied to your skin. The gel helps the transducer make good contact so clear images can be captured. You may feel light pressure as the technologist moves the device across your skin, but the test is usually painless.

Some exams require simple preparation. For example, you may be asked not to eat before an abdominal ultrasound or to drink water before a pelvic ultrasound. You will receive instructions before your appointment.

Your Scan Results and Records

You will be told when and how to expect your imaging results. Many results will appear in your patient portal when available.

To find instructions on how to obtain copies of your exam images visit Imaging Test Results and Records.