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Ultrasound in obstetrics and gynaecology

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  Ultrasound technology has revolutionized the field of obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN), offering a non-invasive and highly effective method for imaging and diagnosing various conditions. Here are some key applications of ultrasound in obstetrics and gynecology: Prenatal Care: Ultrasound is routinely used during prenatal care to monitor fetal development, growth, and well-being. It helps determine gestational age, assess fetal anatomy, detect abnormalities, and evaluate the placenta and amniotic fluid levels. Dating and Viability: Ultrasound is used to accurately determine the gestational age of the fetus, helping to confirm the due date and assess fetal viability in early pregnancy. Anomaly Scan: Anomaly scans, typically performed around 18–20 weeks of pregnancy, use ultrasound to assess the fetal anatomy in detail. This helps detect structural abnormalities, congenital anomalies, and markers for genetic disorders. Multiple Gestations: Ultrasound is essential for diagnosing a...

Preparing for an ultrasound scan

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Usually, when a doctor recommends an ultrasound scan , they will explain why the procedure is necessary and how best to get ready for it. Pre-examination preparation generally depends on the area of the body that will be examined; however, it is not always necessary to follow a set protocol. Eating, drinking, and taking drugs are all perfectly acceptable both before and after an ultrasound examination , unless specifically directed otherwise. In certain cases, an 8–12 hour fast will be necessary (before to an abdomen or vascular ultrasound). This is to prevent issues with sound waves coming into contact with undigested food in the stomach, which could cause fuzzy images. Eat a fat-free and/or low-fiber meal the night before, followed by a brief period of fasting (for up to 6 hours before the scan), if the digestive system or organs such as the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, or spleen are to be checked. This is done to reduce the amount of gas in the digestive tract, which might interfer...

HOW Do Ultrasound Scans Work

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Ultrasound scans, also known as sonography , work by using high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how ultrasound scans work: Generation of Sound Waves: A transducer, a handheld device, is used to generate high-frequency sound waves. These sound waves are typically inaudible to the human ear, with frequencies higher than the upper audible limit of human hearing. Transmission into the Body: The transducer is placed against the skin on the area being examined. A gel is often applied to the skin to ensure proper contact and to eliminate air pockets that can interfere with the transmission of sound waves. Propagation through Tissues: The generated sound waves travel through the body tissues. When they encounter different types of tissues (fluids, solids, air), some of the waves are reflected back to the transducer while others continue to penetrate deeper. Echo Reception: The transducer not only sends out sound waves but ...