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 is 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.

Where is Ultrasound Imaging Available?

MultiCare Medical Imaging offers ultrasound imaging at Tacoma General and Mary Bridge Children's Hospital, Allenmore Hospital, MultiCare Gig Harbor Medical Park, MultiCare Covington Clinic, MultiCare Auburn Health Center, MultiCare Auburn Medical Center, Auburn Diagnostic Imaging Services, MultiCare Kent Clinic and Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup.

How Do I Prepare for My Ultrasound?

Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to complete paperwork.

For your safety and the safety of your children, please make arrangements for someone to care for your children during your scheduled appointment time. If you are unable to find care for them, please call and reschedule your appointment.

You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your ultrasound exam. You may be asked to remove clothing and jewelry in the area that will 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.

You may be asked to drink water to fill your bladder for your exam.

How Long Will My Ultrasound Take?

An ultrasound procedure takes 30 to 60 minutes.

Getting Your Results

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

Common Types of Ultrasound

• Abdominal Ultrasound
• Breast Ultrasound
• Cranial Ultrasound
• Fetal Ultrasound
• Pelvic Ultrasound
• Testicular Ultrasound
• Thyroid and Parathyroid Ultrasound
• Transvaginal Pelvic Ultrasound
• Ultrasound for Rotator Cuff Disorders
• Biophysical Profile (BPP)