Frequently Asked Questions
Is ultrasound harmful?
Ultrasound involves no radiation. It is a safe imaging method that uses sound waves and can be performed with confidence in many situations, including pregnancy.
Is color Doppler ultrasound different from regular ultrasound?
Color Doppler ultrasound allows the evaluation of blood vessels and blood flow. It provides additional information beyond the standard ultrasound examination.
Do I need to fast before an ultrasound?
It depends on the type of examination. A full abdominal ultrasound usually requires fasting, whereas thyroid or breast ultrasound does not.
Is a thyroid nodule always dangerous?
No. The vast majority of thyroid nodules are benign. What matters is an accurate assessment based on the nodule's ultrasound features.
Why is the varicose vein Doppler exam performed standing?
Venous valve insufficiency becomes apparent under the effect of gravity. For an accurate evaluation, the examination must therefore be performed in the standing position.
What matters more — the ultrasound report or the images?
Ultrasound is an operator-dependent examination. Real-time evaluation of the images by an experienced radiologist provides the most accurate result.