Ultrasound imaging is a method of obtaining pictures of different organs inside the human body. It involves sending through and processing the reflections of sound waves inside a person’s body. These reflections are then processed by special instruments and powerful computers to create a picture of the organs. The key advantages of ultrasound are that it is quick, gives real-time pictures and does not use x-rays or other types of radiation. As a result, it is particularly useful as a first-line diagnostic tool, and in assessing pregnant women (obstetrics) and babies.  It is also used extensively in the study of the heart, when it is called Echocardiography.

Ultrasound, more than other modalities, is dependent on the technique of the person conducting the examination, and their ability to understand the implications of what they are seeing.  The vast majority of MDI’s ultrasound examinations are performed by doctors with specialist training in that area.