Ultrasound

What is an ultrasound?

An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body.
Ultrasound scans are quite safe because they use sound waves or echoes to make an image instead of radiation.

Types of ultrasounds

  • Pelvic Ultrasound Imaging
  • Abdominal Ultrasounds
  • Obstetric Ultrasounds
  • Transvaginal Ultrasound
  • Transrectal Ultrasound
  • Elastography (measures the stiffness or elasticity of organs)

When do I need an ultrasound?

An ultrasound is used for many reasons, including:

  • Diagnosing gallbladder disease
  • Evaluating blood flow
  • Checking your thyroid gland
  • Detecting genital and prostate problems
  • Evaluating metabolic bone disease
  • Examining a breast lump
  • Assessing joint inflammation (synovitis)
  • Guiding a needle for tumour or biopsy treatment
  • Examining the ovaries and uterus during pregnancy and monitor the developing baby's health

How to prepare

Any garments with belts, metal zippers, buttons and jewellery may interfere with Ultrasound images. Therefore, you will be required to wear the gown provided.

Special preparations

Abdominal Ultrasound

You cannot eat anything 6 hours prior to the exam. Water and medication may be taken. You will need to arrive with a full bladder by drinking 2 litres of water at least an hour before your examination.

Pelvis/kidney Ultrasound

Eat and drink as normal. As with the abdominal ultrasound, you will need to arrive with a full bladder by drinking 2 litres of water at least an hour before your examination.

What to expect

You will be lying face-up on an examination table for most examinations. For other studies, such as a shoulder study, you may be required to sit up. Next, a clear gel is supplied to the area to secure contact and eliminate air between the skin and transducer. The Radiographer may ask you to hold your breath, for intermittent periods of time, during upper abdominal studies (liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas and kidneys).