An ultrasound utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create images that allow physicians and surgeons to examine organs and systems within a patient’s body. Unlike a CT scan or an X-ray, an ultrasound does not use radiation to obtain the images. An ultrasound may be used to evaluate breast lumps, evaluate the thyroid gland, check for gallbladder disease or even evaluate muscles and tendons.
Cary Medical Group offers in-office ultrasound services. During an ultrasound, you will lie on a table, and a clear gel will be applied to the area being examined. This gel assists the transition of the sound waves. A handheld probe, called a transducer, will be moved over the area to be examined. This transducer sends high frequency sound waves through body tissue, and when the sound waves reflect off of structures such as organs or bones, it creates an image that is then interpreted by the physician.
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