Ultrasound is a safe, painless imaging tool that helps providers evaluate many different organs and soft tissues throughout the body. Sheridan Memorial Hospital offers comprehensive diagnostic ultrasound services — not limited to pregnancy — to support the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of medical concerns. Using high-frequency sound waves and no radiation, ultrasound provides clear, real-time images that help guide your care with confidence.
What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound (sonogram) uses sound waves to create live images of internal organs, blood vessels and soft tissues. A small handheld device called a transducer sends sound waves into the body and captures the echoes that bounce back, creating detailed images on a screen.
Ultrasound is extremely versatile and commonly used to assess the abdomen, pelvis, thyroid, heart, blood flow and musculoskeletal system.
Why You Might Need an Ultrasound
Your provider may order an ultrasound to evaluate symptoms or conditions such as:
- Abdominal & Digestive Concerns
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Gallbladder disease
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Liver abnormalities
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Pancreatic issues
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Kidney stones or kidney disease
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Abdominal pain or swelling
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- Vascular (Blood Flow) Issues
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Suspected blood clots (DVT)
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Carotid artery disease
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Poor circulation or varicose veins
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Aneurysm screening or monitoring
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- Pelvic Concerns (Non-obstetric)
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Uterine or ovarian issues
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Pelvic pain
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Prostate conditions
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- Thyroid or Neck Issues
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Thyroid nodules
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Enlarged lymph nodes
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Salivary gland concerns
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- Musculoskeletal Injuries
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Tendon or ligament tears
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Soft tissue masses
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Joint pain or swelling
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- Guidance for Procedures
- Ultrasound is frequently used to guide biopsies, injections and other minimally invasive procedures with precision.
Because ultrasound does not use radiation, it is safe for repeated or follow-up imaging as needed.
What to Expect During Your Ultrasound
Ultrasound exams are comfortable, noninvasive and typically last 20–45 minutes, depending on the area being evaluated.
- Before Your Exam – Preparation varies based on the type of ultrasound:
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You may be asked to fast for abdominal exams.
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You may be asked to drink water before pelvic imaging.
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Your technologist will explain any specific instructions in advance.
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- During the Exam
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A warm gel will be applied to the skin to help transmit sound waves.
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The technologist will gently move the transducer over the area being examined.
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You may be asked to change positions or hold your breath briefly for clearer images.
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The process is painless, and images appear on the screen in real time.
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- After the Exam
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You can return to normal activities immediately.
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A radiologist will interpret the images and send a report to your provider.
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Ultrasound Services at Sheridan Memorial Hospital
We offer a full range of diagnostic ultrasound capabilities, including:
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Abdominal, renal, and hepatobiliary ultrasound
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Vascular and carotid ultrasound
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Thyroid and soft tissue ultrasound
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Pelvic ultrasound (non-obstetric)
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Musculoskeletal ultrasound
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Ultrasound-guided procedures and biopsies
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Emergency and inpatient ultrasound
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Advanced technology for high-resolution imaging
Our ultrasound team includes skilled sonographers and board-certified radiologists who are dedicated to providing clear, accurate results with compassion and professionalism.
For additional information on ultrasounds offered through the Sheridan Memorial Hospital Women’s Clinic, click HERE.