USG Full Form in Medical & Pregnancy | Meaning, Uses & Benefits

The USG is a medical test, which is referred to as an ultrasound. The test is performed by using sound waves to create pictures of the internal parts of the body. This helps the physician to diagnose the condition and prepare the treatment plan appropriately for the patient.

When we say ultrasound, the thought of a pregnant woman having a glimpse of the growing baby in the womb strikes our mind. While pregnancy ultrasounds are just one part of its uses, this diagnostic imaging tool has actually been used in various applications.

USG Full Form in Medical

USG stands for Ultrasound Sonography. It is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of internal organs and tissues. The procedure is typically performed by a trained sonographer using a handheld device called a transducer.

Is USG and Ultrasound the Same?

Yes, both terms refer to the same imaging technique. While “ultrasound” is commonly used worldwide, “USG” is a widely used abbreviation, especially in India and other parts of Asia.

How is an Ultrasound Test Performed?

• In general, the ultrasound scan is performed by making the patient lie down on the table.
• The part of the body being examined is exposed, depending on the type of ultrasound the physician has recommended.
• A jelly-like substance is applied to the skin.
• This substance is not applied inside the body, except when performing a vaginal ultrasound, where it may be applied to the probe.
• The jelly does not stain or harm the skin.
• It helps reduce friction when the technician moves the transducer or probe to capture images of internal body structures.
• The sonographer may ask you to stay still to ensure clear images are displayed on the computer screen.
• Once enough clear images are captured, the sonographer will ask you to wipe off the remaining jelly.

Note: Ultrasound technicians typically do not explain medical conditions. If you have concerns or doubts, consult your physician for detailed information.

USG Report Timing

Ultrasound test reports generally take 30 minutes to an hour. However, the exact time may vary depending on the type of ultrasound performed and the facility where the test is conducted.

Uses and Importance of an USG In The Medical

Ultrasound imaging device has many uses and importance in various applications. From confirming the pregnancy to diagnosing certain medical conditions and assisting physicians to make appropriate decisions on medical procedures, the tool plays a vital role. Some of the major applications where the diagnostic tool is used are:

Pregnancy

The USG abdomen and pelvis scan during the first trimester of pregnancy is performed to confirm the gestation and its age. Later in the second trimester, the ultrasound scan is used to determine the anatomy of the fetus and confirm its normal growth. While, in the third trimester, the diagnostic procedure is used to monitor fetal development. It is also used to analyse the presence of potential abnormalities or complications, if any. The complications may include the amount of amniotic fluid, birth defects, and so on.

Diagnostics

Healthcare providers use ultrasound scans to diagnose a wide range of medical conditions. The type of ultrasound chosen and suggested by the physician is typically dependent on the symptoms the patient experiences. Some of the diagnostic ultrasounds include:

• Abdominal ultrasound: Used to diagnose medical conditions affecting abdominal organs such as the gallbladder, spleen, liver, pancreas, and kidneys. It also evaluates blood vessels leading to these organs.
• Kidney (renal) ultrasound: Examines kidney function, ureters, and bladder, helping detect infections or obstructions.
• Breast ultrasound: Recommended if abnormalities are detected in a mammogram. It helps identify cysts and lumps in the breast.
• Doppler ultrasound: Analyzes blood flow in the body, especially in the legs and arms, to detect blockages or abnormalities.
• Functional ultrasound: Evaluates changes in blood volume and flow to the brain, aiding in brain surgeries and premature baby brain mapping.
• Pelvic ultrasound: Examines pelvic organs such as ovaries, uterus, cervix, and bladder. It helps diagnose conditions like fibroids, cysts, and endometrial disorders. It is also used in fertility treatments.
• Thyroid ultrasound: Detects abnormalities in the thyroid gland, such as cysts, nodules, or goitres.
• Transvaginal ultrasound: Performed by inserting a probe inside the body to obtain clear images of pelvic organs.
• Transrectal ultrasound: Used to examine the prostate and surrounding tissues when prostate-related symptoms are present.

Guidance for Surgeries and Procedures

In certain scenarios, healthcare providers use ultrasounds to guide real-time imaging during surgeries or procedures. Common ultrasound-guided procedures include:

• Needle placement to drain fluids or tissue from joints, muscles, cysts, kidneys, and liver.
• Soft-tissue mass evaluation and transplant organ procedures.
• Embryo transfer in IVF treatment, IUD placements, nerve blocks, and lesion localization.

Therapeutic Applications

Ultrasounds are used in therapeutic applications to treat tissues with inflammation, pain, and damage. The process enhances blood flow, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the injured area, which aids in faster tissue repair.

What to Expect During a USG Scan

The preparation for a USG (ultrasound) scan vastly depends on which part of the body the patient is going to be scanned. The type of scan is typically prescribed by your physician based on the symptoms you experience.

Before the diagnostic test, your physician may provide you with specific instructions. The instructions may include fasting for a particular hour before the test, drinking plenty of water to make your bladder full, or consuming less fatty food the night before the diagnostic test. Always ensure to follow the instructions of your healthcare provider and sonographer. This helps them acquire better and clearer pictures of the internal parts of your body, ultimately leading to more accurate diagnoses, enhanced treatment plans, and better patient care.

Apart from this, it is suggested to wear comfortable clothes that are easy to remove and wear back during the test.

The Advantages of a Ultrasound Imaging

USG scans offer a wide range of advantages. Some of them are:

• All ultrasound scans are painless and non-invasive procedures. They require no injections, needles, or incisions.
• Being a non-invasive procedure, the test doesn’t require any recovery period.
• Ultrasounds are generally safe. This is because they use sound waves to create images of the internal parts of the body. They are also considered much safer compared to CT scans and X-rays.
• Ultrasound scans are typically cost-effective, including USG abdomen and pelvis scan price.
• Ultrasound diagnostic scans provide a better and clearer quality of images, enabling the physician to make more informed decisions.

If you still have questions about USG scans and their role in pregnancy, we suggest having a consultation with the specialists at Aval Clinics. They can help you understand the importance of USG based on your pregnancy stage and health needs.

Contact us today to learn more about USG scans and get personalized care:

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