When it comes to getting good image quality, simple things like ultrasound gel are essential. In fact it is not recommended to do an ultrasound scan without it.
Purpose of Ultrasound Gel
Ultrasound sound waves have a hard time traveling through the air, and so ultrasound gel is placed on both the patients skin and the ultrasound probe. Ultrasound gel creates a bond between the skin and the probe preventing the air interference and resulting in a reduction of acoustic impedance and reflection to give you a clearer image.
Another helpful purpose of ultrasound gel is the role of lubrication. Gel helps move the probe smoothly over the skin when preforming an ultrasound scan. It can also be used for a rectal or vaginal ultrasound exam for lubrication.
Common Questions
Is it toxic?
No, the ingredients used to make ultrasound gel are non-toxic and safe to use by trained medical professionals.
Does it expire?
The typical shelf life of gel is 5 years. It is recommended once opened it should be used within 28 days.
Does it have to be cold?
Ultrasound gel is a water-based product and acclimates to the temperature of the environment. Typically clinics and hospitals are on the colder side, and this makes for cold gel. An ultrasound gel warmer can used to increase patient comfort, and keep ultrasound gel bottles at a warm temperature.
Ultrasound Gel Recommendations
Aquasonic 100 is the most widely used gel for diagnostic and therapeutic medical ultrasounds. The Aquasonic 100 gel formula is hypoallergenic, bacteriostatic, non-sensitizing and non-irritating. Recommended for all procedures where a viscous gel is required. Purchase it online today!