Ultrasound scanning is a non-invasive test. It is widely available and easy to use. Ultrasound uses no ionizing radiation, and there are no known harmful effects in humans, with standard diagnostic ultrasound.
| The types of ultrasound equipment used in our
centre, include some of the latest State of the Art models. We are one of
the first centers in Eastern Ontario to operate a 3D machine. The patient
is often required to fill her bladder prior to coming for her ultrasound
examination. There may be some discomfort from pressure on the full bladder.
The conducting gel is non-staining and may feel slightly cold and wet. |
 |
The main uses of Ultrasound in Obs-Gyn in our Centre are:
- Confirmation of normal/abnormal Clinical finding
- Diagnosis of uterine and pelvic abnormalities.
- Evaluation of the endometrial lining with Saline Infusion Sonography (SIS)
- This new technique is now widely used to obtain information about the cavity of the uterus and its contents. We can identify benign structures such as Polyps (skin tags) or Myomas (fibroids) by instilling a small amount of saline through the cervix under ultrasound guidance. This procedure is done in a private, quiet environment, and patients can view the findings on an adjacent monitor. Patients may experience mild cramps during the test, which disappear within a few minutes of its completion.
- Confirmation of Tubal Patency for fertility patients by sonohysterosalpingography
- We are able by a similar technique to SIS to identify possible infertility problems by passing a solution of air bubbles through the fallopian tubes thereby identifying tubal patency. This is done under ultrasound guidance and makes the older test – Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) obsolete. It eliminates the potential risk of X-Radiation exposure to patient and staff.
- Confirmation of early pregnancy.
- First trimester ultrasonic soft markers for chromosomal abnormalities such as fetal nuchal translucency (IPS)
- Assessment of fetal anatomy, size and growth.
- Confirmation of presentation.
- Twin pregnancy assessment
- Biophysical profile assessment
The number of ultrasound examination a woman should have is determined by her Physician and based on clinical findings. Most patient will have a first trimester ultrasound scan for Pre-Natal Diagnosis (IPS) followed by a full scan at 18-20 weeks to verify normal fetal morphology.
There may be further ultrasounds performed at 32-34 weeks for fetal presentation, placental position and growth.
High-risk pregnancies need frequent ultrasounds to confirm
fetal well-being, often performed weekly. These are called Biophysical Profiles(BPP).
A scoring system is used and each parameter is awarded two points. The score
is usually out of 8.
The interpretation of your ultrasound will be done by an Obs/Gyn physician
with recognized ultrasound experience. The information obtained by the ultrasound
examination is captured on a sophisticated PACS (Picture Archival Communication
System) which is new computerized technology. It enables the reading physician
to report the results of the images of your ultrasound remotely and confidentially
over the internet if required on an emergency basis. Your results are available,
on site, on a network of computers and servers which is highly confidential.
A final report will be sent to your personal physician and may be given to you if requested by your doctor.
