» Ultrasound imaging (Sonography)

» Are there any dangers? Is it painful?
No, sonography is absolutely safe; there are no known harmful effects. Ultrasound imaging is a painless, non-invasive procedure.

» What is ultrasound imaging? When is it performed?
Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, is a method of obtaining images from inside the human body through the use of high-frequency sound waves. The reflected sound wave echoes are recorded and displayed as a real-time visual image. No ionising radiation (x-ray) is involved in ultrasound imaging. Ultrasound is a useful way of examining many of the body's internal organs, including but not limited to the heart, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys and bladder. Because ultrasound images are captured in real time, they can show movement of internal tissues and organs and enable physicians to see blood flow and heart valve functions. This can help to diagnose a variety of heart conditions and to assess damage after a heart attack or other illness.