At McLaren we use the latest technology and state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment.
An ultrasound exam, or sonogram, is a safe and generally non-invasive procedure that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to image an internal body structure. A machine is used to produce high-frequency sound waves that are transmitted through a hand-held transducer into the body.
There are no known harmful effects on humans for standard diagnostic ultrasound. Ultrasound imaging uses no ionizing radiation.
Before the Ultrasound
You will receive specific instructions based on the type of ultrasound you are undergoing. In general, the following guidelines apply.
During the Ultrasound
Ultrasound exams typically take 30 minutes.
The sonographer then passes the transducer over the targeted area and obtains the desired diagnostic data. Depending on the type of exam, you may have to lie still, change positions, hold your breath, or perform simple breathing exercises. You will feel pressure from the transducer, but ultrasound is painless and does not use x-ray radiation. For certain exams, you may have to change positions, hold your breath, or have a full bladder
Transvaginal and transrectal ultrasound are specialized tests that can provide better images than traditional ultrasound or other diagnostic methods. For these exams, a smaller, specially designed transducer may be inserted into the vagina or rectum.
After the Ultrasound