Ultrasound

Diagnostic ultrasound uses safe high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the body's internal organs. Our radiologists study these images and send the results to your doctor. The latest scanning technology for general and OB studies is available at all facilities.

The advantages of ultrasound include:

  • No radiation exposure
  • No needles are used except when the patient is having an ultrasound guided biopsy
  • No shots or IV needed
  • No known health risks or side effects

Types of Ultrasound Exams at Swedish

  • Abdomen
  • Abscess Drainage
  • Amniocentesis (sampling of fluid from around the fetus)
  • Biopsies of the following organs: Lymph Nodes, Thyroid
  • Chest
  • Extremity
  • Obstetric: OB First Trimester, OB Second or Third Trimester, OB Nuchal Translucency, OB Fetal Detail
  • Paracentesis (drainage of fluid from the chest cavity)
  • Pelvic (with or without transvaginal)
  • Renal
  • Testicular/Scrotum
  • Thoracentesis (drainage of fluid from the abdominal cavity)
  • Thyroid or Parathyroid
  • Organ Transplant Imaging (First Hill Campus only): Kidney, Liver
  • Pediatric Exams: Abdomen, Appendix, Cranial, Infant Hips, Renal, Spinal