During an ultrasound, you will be positioned on an examination table that can be tilted or moved. A clear
water-based gel is applied to the skin to eliminate air pockets between the transducer and the skin that
can block the sound waves from passing into your body. The sonographer (ultrasound technologist) or
radiologist then presses the transducer firmly against the skin in various locations, sweeping over the
area of interest or angling the sound beam from a farther location to see an area of concern better.
When the examination is complete, you may be asked to dress and wait while the ultrasound images are
reviewed. Most ultrasound examinations are completed within 30 minutes to an hour.
