Prenatal Ultrasound
Ultrasound is the use of high-frequency sound waves to image organs and other structures inside the body. A hand held device, called a transducer, is placed onto the skin surface near the area of interest, and sends out sound waves and “listens” as the sound waves bounce off objects and return to the transducer. Sound waves are then converted into an image that is seen on the ultrasound machine. This image can be frozen and stored for diagnostic use. At Sparrow Hospital, all transducers are high-resolution to ensure the most detailed and diagnostic image. One of the greatest benefits of ultrasound imaging is that there are no known health risks to the developing baby.
A general screening pregnancy ultrasound exam occurs between the 18th and 20th week of pregnancy and searches for major fetal abnormalities. During this screening, the ultrasound technologist, known as a sonographer, will collect images and information on developing baby’s brain, heart, abdomen, kidneys, bladder, spine, and the shapes of the head, legs, and arms. There are many reasons to perform an ultrasound during your pregnancy. Some of the common reasons include:
- To determine the age of the baby and establish a due date.
- To check the growth of the baby.
- To check the baby’s position
- To determine if there are multiple fetuses.
- To check the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby.
- To check the baby’s heart rate, movement and general well being.
- To check the position of the placenta and cervical length.
During the ultrasound exam, a gel is placed on the skin near the area of interest. The transducer is then placed directly onto the gel and moved around to obtain the necessary images. The gel acts as a conductor allowing the sounds waves to penetrate into the body. The gel is water-soluble and non-irritating to the skin. This procedure can provide valuable information to both you and your health care provider regarding the health of your baby. When the sonographer has completed all the necessary scans and images, the exam is complete.
Once the exam is complete, you will be free to leave. You can return to your regular schedule with no interruptions. A report will be generated in 48 hours and sent to your physician. If you need to take copies of the ultrasound exam to your doctor, films can be obtained at our centralized Film Library. If you have any questions, please contact our Ultrasound Department in the Sparrow Professional Building at 517.364.5645.
Sparrow Radiology’s Department of Ultrasound is pleased to provide a commitment to women’s health by taking an active role in a variety of Women’s Services. Many of the ultrasound services for women revolve around prenatal ultrasound, but a number of other ultrasound tests are available as needed.
The Sparrow Radiology Ultrasound Department is accredited by the American College of Radiology and all sonographers are registered as Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. For more information about the field of Ultrasound, visit American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.