Ultrasound, also called sonography is the most effective imaging technique that uses high frequency sound waves to produce the images of various organs, tissues or blood flow inside the body. These high-frequency sound waves are transmitted to the site of interest where the tissues scatter, reflect, and absorb the sound waves to various degrees. The sound waves that are reflected back are converted into electric signals. The recorded signals are analyzed by the computer and then the information is displayed on a screen. Ultrasound is a noninvasive technique that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.

This imaging technology was first developed during World War II to locate submerged objects. Nowadays, this technique is widely used in every branch of medicine. For examining different parts of the body such as abdomen, breasts, female reproductive system, prostate, heart and blood vessels, this technique is used.

In case of obstetrics ultrasound, this technology is used to determine the age, number, and location of the fetus, as well as to examine the fetus for birth defects or other medical problems. In the abdomen, Ultrasound is used to detect abnormalities such as gallstones or liver disease. Through cardiac ultrasound, heart problems can be identified. Nowadays, Sonography is increasingly being used in the detection and treatment of heart disease, heart attacks and vascular disease that can eventually lead to stroke.

This imaging technology has wide applications. Even for therapeutic purposes such as muscle/joint heating and lithotripsy this imaging technology is used.

Doppler ultrasound, a special ultrasound technique is used to evaluate blood flow through a blood vessel, including the body’s major arteries and veins in the abdomen, arms, legs and neck.

Ultrasound is also used to guide procedures such as needle biopsies, in which needles are used to extract sample of cells from an organ for lab testing.

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