MultiCare Health System

Ultrasound

What is an ultrasound?
Ultrasound imaging - also known as sonography - uses sound waves to produce images of organs, vessels and tissues in the body. During an ultrasound examination, a small, hand-held transducer is placed in contact with your body. Ultrasound imaging has many applications. It is most commonly associated with pregnancy but also ideal for imaging the heart and the blood vessels. It may be used to detect breast cysts or gallstones and to examine the prostate, liver, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, colon and urinary bladder for tumors or inflammation.


How do I prepare for my ultrasound?
You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your ultrasound exam. You may be asked to remove clothing and jewelry in the area to be examined or you may be asked to wear a gown during the procedure.


What can I expect during my ultrasound?
Most ultrasound examinations are painless, fast and easy. A radiologist or sonographer will spread gel on your skin and then press the transducer firmly against your body, moving it back and forth over the area being examined until the desired images are captured. There may be varying degrees of discomfort from pressure as the transducer is pressed against your body.

How long will my ultrasound take?
An ultrasound procedure takes 30 to 60 minutes, and is done at all of MultiCare’s Medical Imaging locations.


Getting your results
A radiologist will analyze the images and send a signed report with his or her interpretation to your healthcare provider.


Common Types of Ultrasound