At her practice, East Meadow Medical, Dr. Razzaq-Ahmed provides ultrasound services to her patients from in and around East Meadow, Long Island, New York.
request an appointmentWhat Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging test that uses sound wave technology to create images of the organs and tissues inside the body. An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the inside of the body including organs, tissues, and, in pregnant women, a developing fetus. It helps the doctor to diagnose any issues as well as monitor fetal development. Modern ultrasounds can provide detailed 3D and 4D images and many parents use these to discover the sex of their child. Ultrasounds can also be used to diagnose a variety of issues and conditions affecting many parts of the body including:
- Digestive issues affecting the stomach, liver, pancreas, small intestine, colon, and spleen
- Gynecological conditions including cysts, fibroids, ovarian issues
- Urological conditions affecting the bladder and urethra
- Cardiovascular conditions affecting the heart and circulatory system
- Issues affecting the thyroid and neck
What Happens During the Procedure?
The patient will wear comfortable clothing and have a brief physical exam. Then he or she will lie down on an examination table and the technologist will guide the patient into the best position to visualize the blood vessels. The technologist will spread a gel over the area being viewed to enhance the movement of the sound waves through the body. An ultrasound probe, called a transducer, will be guided over the area and as the waves travel through the soft tissue and bounce back to the transducer, images will form on a video screen allowing Dr. Razzaq-Ahmed to see any blockages, growths, or tumors inside the body. The procedure usually takes between a half hour and an hour depending on the size of the area being examined.
Do I Need to Do Anything to Prepare for an Ultrasound?
In most cases, you will not need to do anything special in advance of an ultrasound. The doctor may suggest that you fast before an abdominal ultrasound, but these instructions will be given on an individual basis. You should always inform your doctor about any medications, vitamins or supplements you are taking.