What Is Ultrasound Imaging?

Ultrasound imaging, also known as sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of your body. These images are generated in real-time, providing detailed views of organs, tissues and blood flow without the use of radiation.

The process is safe, painless and widely used for various medical applications, including:

• Prenatal Care: Monitoring fetal development and detecting potential complications.
• Abdominal Imaging: Assessing the liver, kidneys, bladder and other abdominal organs.
• Pelvic Imaging: Examining the uterus, ovaries and other pelvic structures.
• Cardiac Imaging (Echocardiography): Evaluating the heart’s function and structure.
• Vascular Studies: Checking blood flow in veins and arteries.

Key Benefits of Ultrasound Imaging

• Non-Invasive and Painless: The procedure does not require incisions or needles, making it a comfortable experience for patients.
• Radiation-Free: Unlike X-rays or CT scans, ultrasounds use sound waves, posing no risk of radiation exposure.
• Real-Time Imaging: Ultrasounds provide immediate results, allowing for quick diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Versatility: Ultrasound imaging is used for a variety of medical purposes, from routine check-ups to diagnosing complex conditions.
• Safe for All Patients: This technology is safe for all ages, including pregnant women and infants.

Ultrasound Imaging Services at St. Hope Healthcare

St. Hope Healthcare offers a comprehensive range of ultrasound services tailored to meet the needs of our diverse patient population.

Prenatal Ultrasounds

Pregnancy is an exciting journey, and ultrasounds are an essential part of monitoring the health and development of your baby. Our prenatal ultrasounds include:

• First-Trimester Scans: Confirming pregnancy and estimating the due date.
• Anatomy Scans: Evaluating the baby’s growth and development around the midpoint of pregnancy.
• Third-Trimester Scans: Monitoring the baby’s position, weight and overall health closer to delivery.

Abdominal Ultrasounds

Abdominal ultrasounds are used to diagnose and monitor conditions affecting the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys and bladder. These scans are helpful for evaluating symptoms such as abdominal pain, swelling or abnormal blood tests.

Pelvic Ultrasounds

Pelvic ultrasounds are often used to assess reproductive health in women. They are invaluable for diagnosing conditions such as:

• Uterine fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Endometriosis
• Early pregnancy complications

For men, pelvic ultrasounds can evaluate the prostate gland and detect abnormalities.

Vascular Ultrasounds

Ultrasound technology can assess blood flow in veins and arteries, helping to diagnose conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or peripheral artery disease (PAD). These studies provide critical information for managing cardiovascular health.

Echocardiography

Also known as cardiac ultrasound, echocardiography is used to evaluate the structure and function of the heart. It is commonly used to detect heart disease, monitor heart health and assess the effectiveness of treatments.

What to Expect During an Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging is a straightforward and comfortable process:

1. Preparation: Depending on the type of ultrasound, you may be asked to fast or drink water beforehand.
2. Procedure: During the scan, a water-based gel is applied to the skin, and a transducer is moved over the area being examined. This device emits sound waves that create the images displayed on a monitor.
3. Duration: Most ultrasound exams take 15 to 45 minutes.
4. Results: In many cases, your provider can review the results with you immediately after the procedure.

Schedule Your Ultrasound Appointment in Houston

Whether you need a prenatal ultrasound, diagnostic imaging or vascular studies, St. Hope Healthcare, with clinics and health centers located throughout the Houston metro area, is here to provide the highest quality care in a supportive and welcoming environment.

Take the next step in your healthcare journey. Contact us online today or give us a call (713) 778-1300 to schedule your ultrasound appointment or learn more about our comprehensive well woman and diagnostic services.