Ultrasound at home: types of studies, indications, effectiveness

Ultrasound is a diagnostic technique that allows you to see the structure of internal organs and tissues. The essence of the method is the radiation and reception of reflected ultrasonic waves.

Ultrasound is most often performed by moving an ultrasound sensor over the surface of the skin in the area that needs further examination. Since the air reflects 100% of the ultrasonic rays, a gel is applied between the sensor and the skin.

There are specific types of ultrasound: transvaginal, transrectal, transesophageal, endoscopic, intraoperative, when a special sensor is placed not on the skin, but is inserted into the vagina, rectum, esophagus, stomach, abdominal cavity, etc.

In expert centers such as the EMC, modern equipment makes it possible to perform additional techniques with special indications, such as elastometry, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, and combining echograms with CT scans.

Indications for ultrasound, preparation for examination

Ultrasound is such a highly informative, accessible, safe and well–tolerated method that it has found application in all fields of medicine from gastroenterology and ophthalmology to surgery and traumatology.

The special uniqueness of ultrasound is the ability to examine organs in real time, monitor heart contractions, see intestinal motility, and assess blood flow through blood vessels. As a result, you can get a huge amount of necessary additional information.

In most cases, no preparation is required before ultrasound, with the exception of ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, where fasting is necessary.

What types of ultrasound can be performed at home

Over the past few years, modern portable ultrasound scanners have appeared, which are as good as stationary machines in terms of visualization quality. Thanks to this, ultrasound was performed not only in medical institutions, but also at home without losing the informative value of the study.

Most ultrasounds can be performed at home.

The exceptions are specific types of ultrasound, such as transesophageal, intraoperative, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound, which require the patient to be in a medical facility and special additional equipment.

How ultrasound is performed at home

The doctor arrives at the house with a compact ultrasound scanner, similar to a laptop, and performs ultrasound using the same technology as in the clinic. The doctor may need a horizontal surface on which the patient needs to lie down (a bed/sofa), a table and a chair to write a conclusion. Our doctors have a vaccination certificate, their level of protective antibodies is monitored, a PCR smear is periodically taken, and they are also examined by a therapist. Our devices are sanitized before each visit.

Advantages of ultrasound at home

Ultrasound at home can be a comfortable alternative to ultrasound in the clinic! This is a real manifestation of caring for yourself and your loved ones!

Who might need an ultrasound at home

What types of ultrasound can be recommended to the patient