Ultrasound Services in North Carolina

Ultrasound imaging, also called sonography, involves exposing part of the body to high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Ultrasound exams are safe and non-invasive, and do not use ionizing radiation (X-ray).

Since ultrasound images are captured in real time, they can show the structure and movement of the body’s internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels. Ultrasound imaging is usually a painless medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.

Conventional ultrasound displays the images in thin, flat sections of the body. Doppler ultrasound is a special ultrasound technique that evaluates blood as it flows through a blood vessel, including the body’s major arteries and veins in the abdomen, arms, legs and neck.

In North Carolina, ultrasound services are widely available and are an essential part of diagnostic imaging. These services are often covered by major insurance providers such as Cigna, United Healthcare, Aetna, and Medicare Advantage plans including Blue Medicare and Humana ChoiceCare. Patients are encouraged to verify their coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs before scheduling an appointment.

Ultrasound procedures are performed using a transducer, a device that emits high-frequency sound waves and receives the echoes to create detailed images. The images obtained provide doctors with valuable information to assess the health of organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and reproductive organs. Additionally, ultrasounds are crucial in prenatal care, allowing doctors to monitor fetal development and detect any abnormalities.

There are two types of diagnostic ultrasound: anatomical ultrasound, which offers static images of organs and tissues, and functional ultrasound, which provides dynamic information about blood flow and tissue movement. This combination enhances the ability of healthcare providers to diagnose conditions accurately and plan appropriate treatments.

Patients can access ultrasound services at various professional offices and imaging centers throughout NC, where experienced sonographers perform the procedures with care and precision. Many facilities also provide free consultations to answer questions and help patients understand the procedure, cost, and results.

To obtain the best care, patients should select a provider who accepts their insurance plan, whether it is an HMO, PPO, or other type of coverage. Scheduling an appointment in advance is recommended to ensure timely access to necessary ultrasound services. Overall, ultrasound remains a vital, non-invasive tool in whole health care, offering detailed insights without the risks associated with radiation-based imaging.

What to Expect During an Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves, not radiation, to create real-time images of organs, blood vessels, and soft tissues. A sonographer applies a warm gel to the skin and moves a handheld transducer over the area being studied. Most exams are painless and take 20 to 45 minutes. Because it is safe and non-invasive, ultrasound is often the first choice for imaging during pregnancy and for evaluating many soft-tissue concerns.

How to Prepare for an Ultrasound

Preparation varies by exam. Some studies, such as abdominal ultrasound, may require fasting beforehand, while a pelvic ultrasound may call for a full bladder. You will receive specific instructions when you schedule, and you can review our prep instructions. Wear comfortable, two-piece clothing for easy access to the area being imaged.

Common Uses for Ultrasounds

Physicians rely on ultrasound to evaluate the abdomen, thyroid, breast, pelvis, and vascular system, and to guide minimally invasive procedures. Our radiologists also use targeted exams such as shoulder ultrasound and testicular ultrasound to pinpoint the source of pain or other symptoms.