If your doctor recommends an ultrasound, you’re in good hands at Banner Health. Our experienced imaging teams use advanced ultrasound technology to capture clear, real-time images to help guide diagnosis and care. Whether you're coming in for a routine ultrasound exam or need a more specialized procedure, we’ll help you feel prepared and supported every step of the way.
An ultrasound, also called sonography, is a diagnostic medical test that uses high-frequency sound waves, not radiation, to create images of the inside of your body. The sound waves travel through the body and bounce off soft tissues, internal organs or denser surfaces. These sound echoes are then converted into live images, called sonograms, on a screen.
This safe and noninvasive imaging method is used to monitor, diagnose or evaluate a variety of medical conditions.
Although most people associate ultrasounds with pregnancy, they are used for much more than just viewing the uterus and ovaries. Diagnostic ultrasound is used to examine internal organs, detect abnormal growths or masses and assess blood vessels for blockages or poor circulation.
Common types of ultrasound imaging include:
The type of ultrasound you receive will depend on the type of symptoms or concerns your doctor is evaluating.
Most ultrasound exams need little to no preparation. In some cases, you may be asked not to eat or drink for up to 12 hours beforehand. Your doctor will give you clear instructions based on the type of ultrasound you’re having.
To help ensure comfort during the exam, we recommend:
During your ultrasound examination, a trained technologist will apply a clear gel to the skin over the area being studied. This gel helps a hand-held device, called a transducer, glide over your skin and send ultrasound waves into your body.
The process is generally considered to be safe and is not painful, though you may feel slight pressure if the technologist needs to press the transducer more firmly. The gel might feel cool when first applied.
Most ultrasound imaging tests take about 30 minutes or less.
Ultrasounds are generally considered to be safe. They do not expose you to ionizing radiation, unlike X-rays or CT scans. There are no known long-term side effects from ultrasound waves used in medical imaging.
At Banner Health, we make it easier to get the answers you need with:
Whether you're coming in for routine imaging or a more complex evaluation, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Most ultrasound exams take about 30 minutes or less, depending on the area being examined.
A diagnostic ultrasound creates images of internal organs and soft tissues, while a Doppler ultrasound checks blood flow in blood vessels to look for blockages or narrowing.
It depends on the type of ultrasound. Some require you to avoid eating or drinking for several hours. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
Yes. Ultrasound exams are generally considered to be safe because they do not use radiation like X-rays or CT scans.
You can get an ultrasound at Banner Health hospitals, clinics or Banner Imaging locations. Your provider will help you schedule the right location.
Whatever your need, your doctor can refer you to one of our conveniently located free-standing imaging centers or one of our hospitals.
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