Transvaginal ultrasound: how it works and why it is important

Ultrasound: what it is and when it is performed

By Cristiano Antonino On Jan 28, 2023

Ultrasound is a simple and non-invasive test used in many areas as a first investigation in the exploration of the human body

It makes it possible to identify pathological changes in organs, carry out specialist investigations and monitor the stages of pregnancy.

Ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging technique

It uses ultrasound emitted by a probe placed on the patient to explore the underlying tissues (not the bones).

Specifically, it allows real-time imaging of internal organs, blood vessels, structures and substructures of the body for diagnostic data.

The standard test returns two-dimensional black-and-white (2D) tissue sections on a monitor and, thanks to new ultrasound equipment, also three-dimensional (3D – 4D) volumetric images that are extremely accurate and similar to the original.

The ultrasound test does not involve the use of X-rays and, unlike other methods such as CT and MRI scans, has no side effects and can be repeated several times without any health risks (it is also commonly used on pregnant women).

When is ultrasound used

The field of application is very broad.

Ultrasound scanning is used as an ideal screening in preventive medicine and to diagnose possible pathological changes in organs.

Specifically, the most common are:

abdominal ultrasound, which explores the liver, bile ducts, kidneys, pancreas and spleen in order to assess most of the possible related pathologies;
gynaecological ultrasound is useful for examining the uterus, ovaries and uterine tubes and the presence of any abnormalities, malformations, cysts or nodules in the female reproductive system. It can be performed either by placing the probe on the abdominal wall or vaginally;
cardiac ultrasound is indicated in the study of the structure of the heart and the detection of any structural alterations caused by disease (stenosis, valvular insufficiency, effusions in the pericardiac sac) or alterations in cardiac rhythm;
breast ultrasound is commonly used to detect breast neoformations and breast cancer, especially in young women;
doppler ultrasound (echodoppler) observe the anatomical-functional situation of the large blood vessels and the heart;
thyroid ultrasound of the neck is indispensable for obtaining information on the morphology, volume and structure of the thyroid gland, as well as the presence of any nodules;
obstetric ultrasound makes it possible to observe the uterus and ovaries in pregnant women and to assess the growth of the foetus;
pelvic ultrasound can detect abnormalities in the bladder;
muscle ultrasound detects muscle or tendon pathologies and certain types of joint pathologies;
ultrasound of the prostate and testicles is used to assess the health of the prostate gland.