What is Ultrasonography (USG)?

Ultrasonography (USG) is a safe, non-invasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of your organs, tissues, and blood flow. It is widely used for diagnosis, monitoring, and guiding medical procedures without using radiation.

Types of Ultrasonography

Routine USG

• Abdominal USG (evaluates liver, kidneys, and gallbladder)
• Pelvic USG (assesses uterus, ovaries, and prostate)
• Thyroid USG (checks thyroid gland)
• Breast USG (detects lumps, cysts, or abnormalities)

High-End USG (Advanced Imaging)

• Doppler USG (measures blood flow in vessels, heart, or placenta)
• 3D/4D USG (detailed imaging, especially for fetal scans)
• Contrast-Enhanced USG (used for tumor or lesion characterization)
• Musculoskeletal USG (assesses joints, tendons, ligaments)

Fetal Medicine USG (Pregnancy Scans)

• Dating Scan (6-9 weeks – confirms pregnancy and due date)
• NT Scan (11-14 weeks – screens for Down syndrome)
• Anomaly Scan (18-22 weeks – checks fetal anatomy)
• Growth Scan (3rd trimester – monitors baby’s development)
• Fetal Doppler (assesses blood flow to the baby)

Why Do I Need a USG?

Your doctor may recommend this test to:

• Diagnose abdominal or pelvic pain, gallstones, or kidney issues
• Monitor pregnancy and the health of the fetus (see our Fetal Medicine section for more)
• Evaluate blood flow blockages (DVT, carotid artery)
• Guide biopsies or needle aspirations
• Detect tumors, cysts, or infections

Preparation Guidelines

• Abdomen/Pelvic USG: Fast for 6-8 hours (water allowed)
• Bladder USG: Drink 4-5 glasses of water 1 hour before – full bladder needed
• Pregnancy USG: No fasting – follow clinic instructions
• Wear loose clothing for easy access to the scanned area
• Avoid lotions/oils on the skin (can interfere with the probe)

What to Expect During the Scan

• You’ll lie on an exam table – gel is applied to your skin.
• A transducer (probe) is moved over the area – painless, slight pressure.
• Images appear on a screen in real-time – technician may take measurements.
• Scan time: 15-30 minutes (depends on the type of USG).

Procedure Time

• Total visit time: 30-45 minutes
• Scan duration: 15-30 minutes
• Results: Immediate (routine scans) or within 24 hours (detailed reports).

Post-Scan Guidelines

• No recovery needed – resume normal activities.
• Wipe off gel (hypoallergenic, non-sticky).
• For pregnancy scans: Follow-up as advised by your doctor.

Key Advantages of USG

• No radiation – safe for all ages, including pregnant women.
• Painless & non-invasive – no needles or injections.
• Real-time imaging – useful for guiding procedures.
• Early detection of abnormalities or diseases.

For high-risk pregnancies, Fetal Medicine USG provides critical insights into your baby’s health. For more detailed information on pregnancy monitoring, please check our Fetal Medicine section.