We use ultrasound, or sonography, to obtain images from inside your body through the use of high frequency sound waves. We record echoes of the sound waves and display them as real-time, visual images. There is no radiation involved in ultrasound imaging. We use ultrasound to examine internal organs including the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and bladder as well as soft tissue structures such as the breasts, thyroid, and testicles. We also use ultrasound to assess blood flow within organs or blood vessels and to guide interventional procedures such as biopsies.

For women, pelvic ultrasound is most often used to examine the uterus and ovaries and, during pregnancy, to monitor the health and development of the embryo or fetus. In males, a pelvic ultrasound usually focuses on the bladder and the prostate gland.

Recently, we have used ultrasound to examine the musculoskeletal system of the body to detect problems with muscles, tendons, joints, and soft tissue. We view the images in real time so they can show movement, function, and anatomy, as well as enable the radiologists to diagnose a variety of conditions and assess damage after an injury or illness.

Please click here for directions on how to prepare for this procedure.

Using our 4-Dimensional ultrasound we provide real-time imaging showing an unborn baby's surface anatomy along with its movement. These images are displayed like a movie on a TV screen, and clearly show anatomic detail so we can see almost any abnormality (please see sample 4D ultrasound images on the right). The optimal time for acquiring 4-D fetal images is between 22 and 24 weeks of pregnancy.

Whenever possible, we provide color images on paper free of charge for each patient. Patients may request a copy of selected images on a CD. There is an additional charge of $25.00, and we require 48 hours to complete the CD.

4-Dimensional ultrasound also allows us to better image breast, thyroid and ovarian abnormalities. 3-Dimensional capability also allows us to more accurately perform biopsies.

For more information, please click here to see our brochure on 4D Ultrasound, or visit the GE Healthcare site for general OB ultrasound information and a Fetal Growth Timeline.

Please click here for directions on how to prepare for this procedure.

Please see our brochures for more information regarding 4D Ultrasound.

For these procedures you will be sitting or lying on your back. After placing an ultrasound probe over the area and numbing the area with local anesthesia, the radiologist guides a biopsy needle directly into the mass or fluid collection. The doctor then takes your tissue or fluid specimens using an automatic spring-loaded device or a hand-held fine needle. We then send the tissue or fluid samples to a pathologist for analysis. The procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

When the biopsy is complete, the doctor places a bandage over the biopsied or aspirated area. To verify that your lung has been unaffected by the procedure, our radiologists usually require that after draining fluid from your lung or after a liver biopsy, that a chest x-ray be obtained.

Please click here for directions on how to prepare for this procedure.