A bilateral ultrasound is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that uses sound waves to create real-time images of internal body structures. A transducer emits high-frequency sound waves that travel through the body and bounce off tissues and organs. A computer processes these echoes to form visual representations, allowing healthcare providers to examine various parts of the body without radiation.
What “Bilateral” Means in Ultrasound
The term “bilateral” in ultrasound indicates the examination is performed on both the left and right sides of the body. This approach is useful for evaluating paired organs or structures, such as the kidneys or limbs, allowing for direct comparison. Observing both sides simultaneously helps detect subtle differences or symmetries that might indicate a medical condition.
Why a Bilateral Ultrasound is Performed
A bilateral ultrasound is often performed to diagnose or monitor a range of conditions affecting paired body parts.
For the lower extremities, it is frequently used to investigate symptoms such as swelling, pain, or discoloration, particularly to detect deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This imaging assesses blood flow and identifies blockages.
When kidney issues are suspected, a bilateral renal ultrasound helps identify kidney stones, urinary tract infections, fluid buildup in the kidneys (hydronephrosis), or the presence of masses. It provides details on kidney size, shape, and structural anomalies.
For the reproductive system, a bilateral pelvic ultrasound evaluates conditions affecting both ovaries, such as pelvic pain, the presence of cysts, or issues related to fertility. This scan assesses their size, shape, and internal characteristics.
A bilateral carotid ultrasound examines the carotid arteries on both sides of the neck, which supply blood to the brain. This screens for plaque buildup, narrowing (stenosis), or blockages that could increase the risk of stroke, especially in individuals with risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes.
Additionally, breast ultrasounds are often performed bilaterally, especially as a supplementary tool to mammography for women with dense breast tissue or to investigate lumps and pain in both breasts. This helps differentiate between fluid-filled cysts and solid masses.
The Bilateral Ultrasound Procedure
Undergoing a bilateral ultrasound is generally comfortable. Preparation instructions vary depending on the area being scanned, potentially including fasting for several hours or ensuring a full bladder. A clear, water-based gel is applied to the skin, and a technologist moves the transducer across the skin, capturing images. The procedure is non-invasive and painless, though some pressure might be felt. A bilateral ultrasound typically takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete and is considered a very safe imaging method.
Understanding Your Results
After a bilateral ultrasound is completed, a radiologist interprets the images and compiles a detailed report. This report is sent to the healthcare provider who ordered the ultrasound. Your doctor will discuss the results with you, explaining what the findings mean for your health. The results indicate whether examined structures appear normal or if abnormalities were detected on either or both sides. If an abnormality is found, your doctor will explain its nature, potential implications, and recommended next steps, which might involve further diagnostic tests or ongoing monitoring.