Ultrasound: What It Can (and Cannot) Show
Ultrasound is safe, radiation-free, and surprisingly versatile. Learn what conditions it diagnoses, its limitations, and when your doctor might order one.
Ultrasound is one of the most commonly performed imaging exams — and for good reason. It's safe, painless, uses no radiation, and can visualize a remarkable range of conditions in real time.
How Ultrasound Works
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves that bounce off internal structures to create real-time images. A small handheld transducer is placed on your skin with a thin layer of gel, and images appear instantly on the monitor.
Because there's no radiation involved, ultrasound is safe for pregnant women, children, and repeated follow-up exams.
What Ultrasound Can Show
Abdominal Ultrasound - Gallstones and gallbladder disease - Liver conditions (fatty liver, cirrhosis, masses) - Kidney stones and kidney disease - Pancreatic abnormalities - Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Pelvic Ultrasound - Ovarian cysts and masses - Uterine fibroids - Endometrial abnormalities - Bladder conditions
Thyroid Ultrasound - Thyroid nodules (solid vs. cystic) - Thyroid size and structure - Guidance for fine-needle aspiration biopsy
Vascular Ultrasound (Doppler) - Carotid artery disease (stroke risk) - Deep vein thrombosis (DVT / blood clots) - Peripheral artery disease - Blood flow assessment in organs
Pregnancy Ultrasound - Confirming pregnancy and due date - Monitoring fetal growth and development - Checking placenta position - Detecting certain birth defects
What Ultrasound Cannot Show Well
Bone and lung: Sound waves don't penetrate bone or air-filled lung well. CT or X-ray is better.
Deep structures in large patients: Body habitus can limit image quality.
Brain (in adults): The skull blocks sound waves. MRI or CT is needed.
Bowel detail: Gas in the intestines scatters sound waves. CT is far superior.
Preparing for Your Ultrasound
Abdominal ultrasound: Fast for 8-12 hours before the exam.
Pelvic ultrasound: You may need a full bladder. Drink 32 oz of water one hour before.
Thyroid/vascular: Usually no special preparation needed.
What to Expect
- You'll lie on an exam table in a dimly lit room
- Warm gel is applied to the area being examined
- The technologist moves the transducer across your skin
- The exam typically takes 20-45 minutes
- Results are sent to your physician within 48 hours
Call (727) 398-5999 to schedule your ultrasound.
Have Questions About Your Imaging?
Our team is happy to answer any questions. Call us or schedule online.