An ultrasound examination, also commonly referred to as a sonogram, is a painless, diagnostic technique that makes use of the behavior of sound waves in the human body. When these sound waves are transmitted into the body, they are reflected in specific ways by specific tissues and organs. These reflected waves can be used to produce images of internal organs without harm or exposure to radiation.
Depending on the reason for the study and the circumstances, ultrasound imaging may be performed in the urologist’s office, in the hospital or in an outpatient facility.
In most cases, very little preparation is needed for an ultrasound examination. Some examinations, such as a bladder scan for residual urine, require limited experience while others, such as ultrasound examinations of the kidneys, testicles or prostate, require more experience or expertise.’
The patient will be asked to lie down on the examination table. A clear, water-based gel is applied to the skin over the area to be examined. This gel helps with the transmission of the sound waves. A transducer, which is a hand-held probe, is then moved over that area. Prostate ultrasound examinations are performed by placing a specially designed probe into the rectum.
There is no risk of radiation with this study and the patient can resume their daily activities immediately following this test.
