Frequently asked question: What is an ultrasound?

Ultrasound tests are performed using sound waves. A transducer (a type of microphone) sends out sound waves and then detects them again. These sound waves bounce back off the organs and structures in your body, and the ultrasound machine converts these reflected waves into images. Your thyroid gland becomes visible on the computer screen. Purpose: to determine the location and size of the thyroid gland and the presence of nodules or cysts.

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