Ultrasound Imaging 

Ultrasound imaging, or sonography, produces images of the inside of the body using high-frequency sound waves. These images are captured in real-time, and are able to show the structure and movement of the organs.

How Ultrasound Imaging Works

Ultrasound imaging can monitor and diagnose various conditions within nearly any body system. This test may be performed on patients experiencing pain, swelling, or infection in a specific body area.

 

It is beneficial for examining the breasts, bladder, thyroid, abdominal organs, male and female reproductive organs, and blood vessels and obtaining images of fetuses in the womb. In addition, ultrasound is often used as a real-time guide during needle biopsies for precisely sampling tissue.

What Happens During the Procedure?

The patient is positioned on an examination table during the ultrasound, and a warm, clear gel is applied to the examined area. A transducer is then firmly pressed against the skin and swept back and forth to record the sound waves used to obtain the image. The image appears on a computer screen in real-time, so the patient and doctor can view it together.

How Should I Prepare for This Procedure?

Patients should wear loose clothing for this procedure, allowing the abdominal area to be easily exposed. You may also be asked to change into a gown. In some cases, such as pelvic/urinary bladder examinations, you may be asked to drink up to six glasses of water and not empty your bladder before the procedure. In other cases, such as most gallbladder and abdominal examinations, you may be instructed NOT to have anything to eat or drink after midnight before your appointment or at least 6-8 hours before. The scheduling staff will tell you if you need any of these preparations.

Highest Level of Patient Comfort

  • Clothing: Wear something lightweight and comfortable that is easy to take on and off. Avoid wearing clothing with many metal snaps, zippers, or hooks.
  • Dental Devices: If you wear dentures or partial dental plates, they must be removed.
  • Hair Products: Many hair products, such as "Topik," to cover hair loss or attachable hair weaves contain magnetic particles that must be removed.
  • Hair Accessories: Any hair clips, ties, or pins made of metal or with metal parts must be removed.
  • Jewelry: All metal jewelry and watches must be removed.
  • Makeup: Because some makeup, particularly mascara, is made with a metallic base, it is best not to wear much makeup only a little after your appointment.

Beyond our advanced technology, we have tailored our services to provide the highest level of patient comfort.


South Coast Advanced Imaging provides comfortable surroundings for a relaxing imaging experience. Offering same-day and next-day appointments, fast registration, and quick delivery of results, South Coast Advanced Imaging is your choice for outpatient imaging.

Open 7 Days a Week - Walk-Ins Welcome

  • Patients do not need an appointment at South Coast Advanced Imaging.
  • Patients are seen as quickly as possible on a walk-in basis. Our staff will let patients know of any delays.

Call today at (949) 342-8522 for expert ultrasound imaging solutions

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