Ultrasound

The GE LOGIQ* S8 Ultrasound system delivers superb images, from routine cases to the technically challenging. It is designed for a wide range of applications including abdominal, small parts, breast, vascular, GYN, cardiology, pediatrics, musculoskeletal, urology and more.

Uses of Ultrasound Tests

Ultrasound imaging also called sonography or ultrasound scanning, has many uses in medicine. It can be helpful in diagnosing certain conditions and guiding doctors through precise medical procedures. Ultrasound imaging produces images of the inside of the body by using high-frequency sound waves. These images can show structure and movement of the body's internal organs along with blood flowing through the blood vessels.

• Diagnostics. Doctors use ultrasound imaging to aid in diagnosing a wide variety of conditions affecting the organs and soft tissues of the body including the heart and blood vessels, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, bladder, uterus, ovaries, eyes, thyroid, and testicles. However, ultrasounds do have some diagnostic limitations. Sound waves do not transmit well through dense bone or parts of the body that may hold air or gas, such as the bowel.


• Use during medical procedures. Ultrasound can help doctors during procedures such as needle biopsies. A procedure like this requires the doctor to remove tissue from a very precise area inside the body for testing in a lab.

Benefits of Ultrasound

There are many advantages to using Ultrasound. Generally, these procedures are painless and do not require needles, injections, or incisions. Patients are not exposed to radiation, and there are no known harmful effects when used as directed by your health care provider. Ultrasound captures images of soft tissues that are less likely to show up well on X-rays.

What to Expect During an Ultrasound

Depending on the type of ultrasound test you are having, your doctor may offer special instructions such as not eating or drinking anything the night before the test. Sometimes you may need to drink several glasses of water before your test and refrain from using the restroom to ensure that your bladder is full.

Comfortable clothing that is easy to remove should be worn. Usually, the ultrasound technologist can easily access the area of the body that is being examined without undressing. However, there may be times you need to undress and/or wear a gown.

The technologist will apply a water-based gel to the area in order for the transducer to easily glide across your skin without any air in between. He or she may be looking for specific anatomy and may make measurements or notes while the test is in progress.

Typically an ultrasound takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour to perform. Usually there is no discomfort, and you are awake and alert during the procedure. Once your exam is over, your images will be reviewed by a Radiologist and the final report is sent to your ordering physician.

In March 2016, GE LOGIQ S8 ultrasound equipment became an addition to our Ultrasound Department at Clay County Hospital. We strive to offer you, our community with the best equipment and care. If ever in the future you need our services, share with your doctor your interest in staying close to home for your ultrasound needs.