ULTRASOUND OF NECK

Ultrasound imaging means ultrasonography which is an imaging technique with no pain involved and rather uses high-frequency sound waves to capture images of the structures inside a body. 

The technology that takes an image of the neck area is referred to as an ultrasound of the neck. 

It may assist in evaluating the vascular and non-vascular organs in the neck region which includes the thyroid gland, its lymphatic nodes, salivary glands, arteries, and other veins. 

What is an Ultrasound of the Neck? 

Neck ultrasound makes use of a probe (transducer) that generates high-speed sound waves. 

These sound waves reflect from the internal structures of the neck and are received by the probe. The probe then uses these echoes to create images. 

These images are displayed on a screen and can be recorded for further evaluation. The examination is painless, non-invasive, and does not use radiation. 

Types of Ultrasound of the Neck 

• Doppler Ultrasound: Employs high-frequency sound waves to measure the flow of blood in the neck or check for stenosis or thrombosis in the carotid arteries. 
• Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound: This type of ultrasound incorporates contrast material that enhances stains for better visibility of structures within the body. 

The specialist also monitors for: 

• The dimensions, form, and composition of the thyroid, salivary, and lymph glands. 
• Cysts, tumours, or areas with signs of inflammation. 
• Vascular access of the neck region. 
• Adjustments may be required according to patient characteristics such as age or underlying medical conditions. 

When and Who Needs to Take an Ultrasound of the Neck? 

Ultrasound of the neck is prescribed to patients who have any of the following: 

• Swellings or lumps in the neck 
• Change in voice 
• Difficulty in swallowing 
• Suspected thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism) 
• Inflammatory processes in lymph nodes 
• Monitoring of existing conditions affecting structures in the neck 
• Salivary gland disorders. 

The following are more specific reasons: 

• Evaluation of any anomalies in the thyroid. 
• Investigation of potential disorders relating to the salivary glands. 
• Evaluation of swollen lymph nodes. 
• Assessment of the neck for any masses. 
• Surveillance of neck vessels for any vascular diseases. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

Besides being painless, ultrasound offers important diagnostic advantages: 

• Diagnosis of thyroid, salivary, lymphatic and vascular pathology of the neck. 
• Images are taken during the examination enabling correlation with clinical findings. 
• Helps in guiding the biopsy and treatment of the malignant tumours. 
• Prevents any irradiating side effects from other imaging techniques. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with Ultrasound of the Neck

• Thyroiditis 
• Thyroid carcinoma 
• Salivary gland's inflammatory diseases and sialolithiasis 
• Lymphadenopathy 
• Stenosis of carotid artery 

• Dress in simple and loose clothing. 
• Refrain from wearing any neck jewellery. 
• Abide by the specific fasting instructions, if any are given. 

Assumptions 

Ordinarily, no particular assumptions are required but any existing neck complaints or allergies need to be made known to the technician. 

Ideal Period to Complete the Test 

The test can be carried out at any given time, and it can also depend on the availability of trained personnel and ultrasound machines. 

Eligibility 

Anyone who shows signs of or has certain conditions that can be assessed with a neck ‘ ultrasound ‘ can be tested, although some medical conditions or implants like pacemakers may need some special provisions. 

Steps Involved in Neck Ultrasound Procedure 

1. Setup: The patient sits on an examination bed while the ultrasound specialist prepares for the test. During this, the patient’s neck should be fully visible. 
2. Gel Application: The particular area is then covered with a special gel so that the ultrasound waves can penetrate the body without interruption. 
3. Transduction of Images: The sonographer glides the transducer over the patient’s neck and captures images of the various vertebrae present in that section. Sometimes the patient will be instructed to cease breathing, rotate their neck or change their body’s position to enhance the images. 
4. Post Scanning Phase: Once the scanning is complete, the gel is removed, and the patient is free to carry on with their regular daily activities. 

Precautions to Take before the Examination 

Before beginning the test, always make sure to tell the sonographer or physician about any difficulties you are facing with moving your neck and any pain in your neck. 

Talk about any allergic effects you might have to a certain gel, as well as any past surgeries.