And because ultrasound shows the body at work, it gives the radiologist important information which cannot be obtained in any other way. Ultrasound is the single best way to study the reproductive organs in women. Radiologists can examine a woman s ovaries, uterus and other pelvic organs to locate cysts, benign growths of the uterus and infections painlessly. Patients with pain in the lower abdomen or back, or who have menstrual difficulties, are usually examined with ultrasound. The information obtained by the radiologist can be used by your doctor to recommend treatment, often without the need for exploratory surgery.
Pregnant patients benefit greatly from ultrasound.
The radiologist can examine the baby in the uterus, determining such things as twins, age, possible birth effects and the position of the placenta and umbilical cord, important information for delivery. In women who have complications during pregnancy, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, using ultrasound, the radiologist can also help the obstetrician decide when it is safe to deliver the baby. Further, ultrasound is used to diagnose the pregnancy itself. Not uncommon is a patient with pain in the abdomen or pelvis who is, unbeknownst to her, pregnant. Such women have so called ectopic pregnancies, or pregnancies that occur outside of the uterus.