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An ultrasound gel is a medium that is used in many routine exams, treatments and procedures and it has a wide range of purposes. It’s applied directly onto the skin before an ultrasound exam or procedure takes place.
How Does an Ultrasound Work?
Ultrasound is a special form of technology that sends pulsing sound waves at a high frequency deep into the tissue of a patient using a probe or a transducer. The gel is rubbed onto the skin to help the transducer easily glide along the surface. The device can receive and also send sound waves, which then appear as images that are seen on a computer screen. A sonographer looks at the images to make sure that everything appears normal. This is done in real time and the person operating the ultrasound technology can move the transducer or the probe as required to get a fully defined picture of what’s happening beneath skin level. Screenshot images can also be taken and printed out if required.
Gel Formations
There are different sizes and gel formulations available and they are available in dispenser bottles. The Wavelength Multi-Purpose Ultrasound Gel formula is one of the gels we have available and has become one of the most popular since it has excellent glide and lubricating properties.
What Is Ultrasound Gel Made Of?
Ultrasound gel is composed of a mix of propylene glycol and water. Propylene glycol is a synthetic product that is commonly found in hygiene, cosmetic and food products. It is quite sticky and thick. It’s important for it to have a sticky texture so that it stays on your skin and doesn’t drip off when the ultrasound is being performed.
The gel has a shelf life of approximately 5 years if the bottle remains unopened. Once opened, however, it’s recommended that it be used up within 28 days for the purpose of infection control.
Ultrasound Gel as a Conductor
Ultrasound gels are conductive mediums that are used in many different types of treatments and procedures when a diagnosis is needed. They can be used on various parts of the body and are one of the essential tools used for ultrasounds.
Without this gel, an ultrasound would not be able to produce the desired outcome. The gel is used as a conductive medium by creating a bond between the probe or transducer and the patient’s skin. The sound waves in an ultrasound have difficulty moving through air so the gel is used as a preventative measure to make sure that there is no airspace between the skin and the probe. This allows a clear image to be produced. Ultimately, the more gel that is being used during the procedure, the better the images appear.
While a lot of gel is required to give optimal results, it is messy to use. The sonographer will make sure to wipe up your skin after the ultrasound is over to make sure that all of the gel is removed before you put your clothing back on.
Eliminates Static Electricity
Another thing that can get in the way of reducing clear images is static electricity. Ultrasound gel eliminates the static so that the procedure can be done effectively without any risk of static getting in the way.
Warmers for Ultrasound Gels
Specialized warmers are available to keep the gel and the gel bottles warm. These have been designed specifically for patient comfort since rubbing cold gel over the surface of the skin is a very unpleasant experience. It is important for the patient to remain relaxed during the procedure so it’s imperative to have warm gel at hand before the ultrasound begins.
These warmers are very user-friendly and are available in multi-bottle, single bottle and other configurations. They have multiple uses and are designed to last using only the highest quality materials. You can find ultrasound warmers and gels in any hospital and in many doctors’ offices and healthcare clinics.
Ultrasound Gel Toronto
If you are searching for ultrasound gel suppliers in Toronto, take a look at the gel we offer at nationaltherapy.com. We are a leading supplier for ultrasound gel in the GTA and across the country. You can also call us at (905) 790-6100 if you have any questions at all about our gels or any of our other healthcare products.