Ultrasound

Young female doctor using ultrasound machine

Ultrasound is used for a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Here are some common uses of medical ultrasound:

  1. Obstetrics and Gynecology: Medical ultrasound is frequently used during pregnancy to monitor fetal development, assess fetal health, and determine the sex of the fetus. It can also diagnose and monitor gynecological conditions, such as uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, and endometrial cancer.

  2. Abdominal and Pelvic Imaging: Ultrasound can be used to diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions affecting the abdomen and pelvis, including liver disease, gallstones, kidney stones, bladder problems, and tumors of the reproductive organs.

  3. Cardiology: Cardiology uses ultrasound to assess the structure and function of the heart and blood vessels. It can help diagnose heart valve disease, heart failure, and atherosclerosis.

  4. Vascular Imaging: Ultrasound can visualize blood flow in the veins and arteries. This can help diagnose deep vein thrombosis, varicose veins, and peripheral artery disease.

  5. Musculoskeletal Imaging: Ultrasound can diagnose and monitor conditions affecting the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. It is often used to evaluate injuries such as sprains, strains, and tears.

  6. Interventional Procedures: Ultrasound can guide medical procedures such as biopsies, needle aspirations, and fluid drainage.

Medical ultrasound is a versatile diagnostic tool that can visualize and assess various medical conditions.

Ultrasounds in California