SONOGRAPHY: USING SOUND JUDGEMENT

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is an ultrasound examination?

An Ultrasound examination involves the use of high frequency sound waves to produce an image or “sonogram” of the internal structures of the body.

Is ultrasound harmful?

To date, with prudent, medical use of diagnostic ultrasound there have been no documented harmful effects. There are no x-rays (radiation) involved in an ultrasound examination. Please refer to the following links for further information on the appropriate use of ultrasound.

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/med/ultrasound-echographie-eng.php#th

http://www.csdms.com/docs/ues.pdf

Are there different types of ultrasound examinations?

Yes. For example, an ultrasound of the heart is called an echocardiogram. An ultrasound study of the arteries is called a vascular ultrasound. A fetal ultrasound may be referred to as a prenatal or obstetrical ultrasound or sonogram.

Who performs the ultrasound examination?

We are called sonographers. Depending upon the type of study you are having, we may have slightly different titles. The physician that interprets your ultrasound may also spend additional time scanning.

What kind of training do sonographers have?

The Ontario Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (OSDMS) recommends Canadian Medical Association accredited programs, such as the Mohawk-McMaster Institute for Health Sciences, and the Michener Institute. For further details please refer to the following links:

http://registrar.mcmaster.ca/future/programs/medical-radiation.html

http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/calendar/healthSciences/medradsci.html

http://www.michener.ca/ce/postdiploma/ultrasound.php

http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/calendar/healthSciences/medTech/DCS.html

Are there credentials for sonographers?

OSDMS members are practicing sonographers registered with the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) and/or Canadian Association of Registered Diagnostic Ultrasound Professionals (CARDUP). These credentialing bodies are considered the gold standard for practicing sonographers. While most employers require registration with one or both of these bodies, sonography is currently an unregulated profession in Ontario. For further details please refer to the following links:

www.cardup.org

www.ardms.org

What happens when I have an ultrasound study or sonogram?

The sonographer will apply gel to the body part to be examined. The gel allows the sound waves to pass into your body. The sonographer will direct the probe or transducer over your body in order to create images that are depicted on the monitor of the ultrasound machine. The sonographer will capture relevant images, and measure and examine various structures over the course of the examination.

Does my doctor get the pictures?

Not usually. The physician (specialist) who interprets the ultrasound examination creates a medical report that is forwarded to your doctor.

Things you should know:

• Often the sonographer asks many questions about your medical condition and the reason your doctor has sent for the ultrasound study. This is a good thing. It helps us get a clear understanding of what the focus of the examination should be.
• All sonograms are not necessarily done in the same area of the hospital or clinic. For example an echocardiogram may be done in the cardiopulmonary department and an abdominal ultrasound done in the diagnostic imaging department.
• Bring all pertinent paperwork that your doctor has given you. A signed requisition is mandatory in many hospitals and clinics.
• Many patients don't understand why they have to have several tests for the same problem. Many imaging studies compliment each other. One test may not give all the answers. To get to the bottom of a health problem, you may require different forms of imaging. If your doctor has ordered different tests, he or she fells you will benefit from these studies; this is in your best interest.
• Ask questions. If you don't understand something or are worried about some part of the ultrasound examination, please tell us. We want to make your visit as easy as possible, but we are not physicians. The final medical interpretation of your ultrasound examination is made by a physician (specialist) and this report is sent to your doctor(s).