Chest Ultrasounds

What are Chest Ultrasounds?

An ultrasound of the chest uses high frequency sound waves to create a live image from inside of a patient’s body. It is a painless test that is very commonly used in the medical field today. An ultrasound is also sometimes referred to as a sonogram, diagnostic sonography, or ultrasonography. The medical professional that performs an ultrasound is called a sonographer.

As an ultrasound uses sound waves rather than radiation, it is regarded as being a safe scan. Because of this, it is the preferred method to use during pregnancy.

An ultrasound diagnoses problems with internal organs, blood vessels, and soft tissue structures within the body. Although generally associated with being used during pregnancy, an ultrasound is used to examine many other parts of the body including the gallbladder, liver, kidneys, pancreas, bladder, and many other internal structures.

A chest ultrasound test creates images of all the organs and structures within the chest including the lungs, heart, aorta, trachea, esophagus, thymus, lymph nodes, and pleural space.

Reasons for a Chest Ultrasound:

Ultrasounds are used for a multitude of reasons. A physician may order an ultrasound if a patient is experiencing any pain, swelling, or other abnormalities that require an internal view of the organs.

A chest ultrasound can be used to guide doctors or surgeons during a procedure, such as a biopsy. They are important in planning for certain types of therapy and surgery, as well as in the aftermath to determine whether the patient’s body is responding to treatment.

Ultrasounds can be used to detect cysts, obstructions, and infections in the body. They can also measure blood flow in the arteries to detect blockages.

An ultrasound may be used to check for certain cancers in various different ways including to detect abnormal tumors, growths or lumps.

A Chest Ultrasound may help diagnose (find):

A chest ultrasound can be used to assess the movement of the diaphragm.

Ultrasounds of the chest can be used to find the cause of chest pain or breathing issues.

An ultrasound of the chest can be used to diagnose and examine excess fluid in the chest.

A chest ultrasound can be used to guide a needle during a biopsy.

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Getting a Chest or Thorax Ultrasound:

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Before the Ultrasound

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During the Ultrasound

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After the Ultrasound

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