Diagnostic Imaging

Imaging Procedures: Ultrasound

You may be referred by your physician to Tukwila Diagnostic Imaging for an ultrasound procedure. Be assured that we are committed to your comfort and care and to providing your doctor with accurate and timely diagnostic information. The following will assist you in preparation for your examination.

What is it?
Utilizing the principles of sonar developed for ships at sea, ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves (inaudible to the human ear) to view internal organs and produce images of the human body.

Is it Safe?
An ultrasound imaging procedure is simple, non-invasive and painless. There is no injection or radiation exposure associated with ultrasound.

Ultrasound Procedures/Modalities

• Abdomen
• Breast
• Breast Biopsy
• Carotid
• DVT, Extremity
• Gallbladder
• Hysterosonogram
• IUD Location
• OB/Biophysical Profile
• Pelvis
• Retroperitoneal (Aorta, Kidneys)
• Shoulder
• Testes and Scrotum

Before Your Ultrasound

• Please bring to Tukwila Diagnostic Imaging previous imaging study results (MRI, CT, X-rays) such as reports, films or CDs, if available.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
• Other preparation depends on the type of exam your doctor has ordered; we will call you prior to your appointment to provide specific instructions.

What to Expect

• You will be asked to lie down on a cushioned table that can be tilted or moved.
• The ultrasound scanning equipment consists of a console containing a computer, electronics and a TV monitor. You will also see a small, hand-held transducer that resembles a microphone, attached to the scanner by a cord.
• A special warm gel or oil is applied to the area to be scanned in order to achieve good contact as the transducer is passed back and forth over the skin.
• Most ultrasound examinations are completed within 30-60 minutes.

After Your Ultrasound

• Your ultrasound will be read by our team of expert radiologists.
• A final report will be sent to your doctor, who can then discuss the results with you in detail.

El Ultrasonido