Ultrasound at Harvard Vanguard
At Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates, ultrasound is used to perform a wide variety of diagnostic and interventional procedures. The combination of our advanced technologies, skilled sonographers and board certified radiologists provides our patients with the quality of care they expect.
Patients have access to ultrasounds services at our Chelmsford, Kenmore, Peabody, Quincy, Somerville practices and at South Shore Medical Center in Kingston and Atrius Health Imaging in Weymouth.
What is an ultrasound?
An ultrasound or sonogram exam uses reflected sound waves to image an internal body structure. Ultrasound does not use x-rays or other types of possibly harmful radiation.
The following diagnostic ultrasound services are available at Harvard Vanguard:
- Abdominal Ultrasound – Can be used to detect gallstones, check the health of the liver, kidneys, pancreas and spleen
- Head & Neck Ultrasound – Can be used to evaluate vessels and arteries leading to the brain in addition to evaluating the thyroid
- Pelvic Ultrasound – Can be used to image the uterus, ovaries and other structures within the pelvis
- Obstetric Ultrasound – Can be used to image an embryo or fetus within a woman’s uterus
- Kidney Renal Retroperitoneal Ultrasound – Can be used to image behind the digestive organs (kidneys, bladder, urinary system, and large blood vessels)
- Testicular - Can be used to image scrotal contents for masses and/or pain.
- Venous - Can be used to evaluate the blood flow in the venous system (performed at our Kenmore location only)
- Limited Venous Ultrasound to Rule Out Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) - Can be used to rule out thrombophlebitis in the extremities
- Breast - Can be used to evaluate areas of concern and differentiate between cystic and solid nodules
- Ultrasound Guided Core Needle Biopsy - Is used to acquire tissue sample for diagnosis
- Ultrasound Guided Cyst Aspiration - Is used to alleviate painful cysts and if needed, obtain diagnosis
How do I prepare for my ultrasound?
Click here to view the preparation information relating to your type of ultrasound prior to your visit.
What should I expect during my ultrasound exam?
Your exam will be performed by a sonographer - a healthcare professional specially trained in the use of ultrasound. The sonographer will apply a small amount of gel to the skin over the area being examined.
A transvaginal ultrasound is a specialized test that can provide better images than traditional ultrasound or other diagnostic methods. For this type of exam a smaller, specially designed transducer may be inserted into the vagina.
How do I get my results?
After the exam has been completed, your ultrasound is read by a board certified radiologist specialty trained in ultrasound imaging. The results are sent to your clinician who will discuss them with you.