Ultrasound Pocket Dictionary

Ultrasound Pocket Dictionary

DESCRIPTIONS

Below are useful terms on ultrasound:

Echogenic — giving rise to reflections (echoes) of ultrasound waves

Hyperechoic – more echogenic (brighter) than normal

Hypoechoic – less echogenic (darker) than normal

Isoechoic – the same echogenicity as another tissue

Transvaginal ultrasonography – Ultrasound is performed through the vagina

Transabdominal ultrasonography – Ultrasound is performed across the abdominal wall or through the abdominal cavity

In normal state, each body tissue type, such as liver, spleen or kidney, has a unique echogenicity. Fortunately, gestational sac, yolk sac and embryo are surrounded by hyperechoic (brighter) body tissues.

Influencing factors

The accuracy of fetal sex discernment depends on:

Gestational age

Precision of sonographic machine

Expertise of the operator

Fetal posture

IMPORTANT OF ULTRASOUND

First trimester

In the first trimester, a standard ultrasound examination typically includes:[11]

Gestational sac size, location, and number

Identification of the embryo and/or yolk sac

Measurement of fetal length (known as the crown-rump length)

Fetal number, including number of amnionic sacs and chorionic sacs for multiple gestations

Embryonic/fetal cardiac activity

Assessment of embryonic/fetal anatomy appropriate for the first trimester

Evaluation of the maternal uterus, tubes, ovaries, and surrounding structures

Evaluation of the fetal nuchal fold, with consideration of fetal nuchal translucency assessment

Second and third trimester

In the second trimester, a standard ultrasound exam typically includes:[11]

Fetal number, including number of amnionic sacs and chorionic sacs for multiple gestations

Fetal cardiac activity

Fetal position relative to the uterus and cervix

Location and appearance of the placenta, including site of umbilical cord insertion when possible

Amnionic fluid volume

Gestational age assessment

Fetal weight estimation

Fetal anatomical survey

Evaluation of the maternal uterus, tubes, ovaries, and surrounding structures when appropriate

OTHER INDICATIONS

Your doctor may order an ultrasound if you’re having pain, swelling, or other symptoms that require an internal view of your organs. An ultrasound can provide a view of the:

bladder

brain (in infants)

eyes

gallbladder

kidneys

liver

ovaries

pancreas

spleen

thyroid

testicles

uterus

blood vessels

An ultrasound is also a helpful way to guide surgeons’ movements during certain medical procedures, such as biopsies.