Ultrasound scan guide

http://www.umediagnostics.com/patient-information/ultrasound-scan-guide/

Download the PDF version of this guide: Ultrasound Guide

What is Ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a imaging technique that uses high frequency sound waves and a computer to obtain a medical image of various organs, vessels, and tissues within the body. With no injection of contrast or radiation exposure, ultrasound is a safe, effective way to view internal organs as they function and to assess blood flow through various organs.

UME Diagnostics is equipped with the latest 3D and 4D ultrasound systems that enable real time techniques for acquiring, navigating and analysing images so the movement of muscles, tendons, organs and blood flow can all be visualised.

Is Ultrasound safe?

There are no known risks to ultrasound. It uses sound waves only and no radiation.

How do I prepare for my scan?

To ensure the best quality images are generated by the sound waves certain preparation is required depending on the type of exam you are having.

Breast ultrasound

No preparation is required. It is very important to bring all previous breast imaging (previous MRI, mammogram and ultrasound) reports and CD images/films on the day of the exam for the radiologist to review and to have a comprehensive impression of your breast health.

Upper abdominal scan

For a study of the upper abdomen (ie liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas) you are required to fast for at least 4 hours prior to the exam. During that time, only drink clear, still water or black tea. Do not drink any dairy products (yoghurt, milk etc) or fizzy carbonated drinks.

Lower abdominal scan

For a study of the lower abdomen (ie kidneys, ureter, bladder, renal) you are required to drink 1.5 litres of water one hour before the exam to fill your bladder. It is essential you have a full bladder prior to your exam.

Full abdominal (upper and lower) exam

For a study of the upper and lower abdomen you are required to fast for at least 4 hours prior to the exam. During that time, only drink clear, still water or black tea. Do not drink any dairy products (yoghurt, milk etc) or fizzy carbonated drinks.

One hour before your exam you are required to drink 1.5 litres of water one hour before the exam to fill your bladder. It is essential you have a full bladder prior to your exam.

Pelvic exam

For a study of the pelvic area (ie pelvis, reproductive or gynaecological system) you are required to drink 1.5 litres of water one hour before your exam to fill your bladder. It is essential you have a full bladder prior to your exam.

Obstetrical exam

If you are less than 18 weeks pregnant you are required to drink 1.5 litres of clear still water one hour before your exam to fill your bladder. It is essential you have a full bladder prior to your exam.

If you are more than 18 weeks pregnant you are required to drink two glasses of water one hour before your exam to fill your bladder. It is essential you have a full bladder prior to your exam.

What can I expect during my scan?

Before your ultrasound study begins you will be asked to change into a comfortable gown. Your ultrasound study will be performed by one of our specialist sonographers who will position you on the examination table. The lights in the room may be dimmed so that the pictures on the monitor can be seen more clearly. Next, a gel will be applied to the area of the body being studied.

The sonographer will move the ultrasound transducer over this area and images will be recorded in real time by the computer. For some examinations such as those of the prostate gland, womb or ovaries, it may be necessary to place an ultrasound probe in the rectum or the vagina to look at internal structures. If you are having an intimate examination the radiologist will describe the procedure to you, and your consent will be sought.

In these cases, you may wish for a third person (a ‘chaperone’) to be present. Ultrasound procedures typically take 15-20 minutes, more complex scans may take up to 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the part of the body being studied.

What happens after my scan?

There should be no side effects and you may eat and drink as usual and resume your daily routine immediately after your scan.

When will I get the results?

The results of your scan will be sent to your referring doctor/consultant within 24 hours of your exam. Your report and images will include a summary of the radiologist’s findings and recommendations for further follow-up.

Chaperone service

All patients are entitled to have a chaperone present for any consultation, examination or procedure where they feel one is required. This chaperone may be a family member or friend. On occasions it may be necessary for a formal chaperone to be present, ie a trained member of staff. Please let us know prior to your appointment if you require a chaperone.

Any other queries?

If you have any other questions, worries or doubts do not hesitate to ask one of our staff. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible.