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Ultrasound
HAVING AN ULTRASOUND SCAN
Your doctor has requested that you have an ultrasound scan.
US (Ultrasound) uses sound waves to image your body in real time, without any x-ray exposure.
This is a brief outline of what you might expect to happen while you are here.
Once you have presented at reception, your personal details will be checked and entered into our computer system.
The sonographer (a specially trained technician who performs the scan) will call you through to the US scanning room, introduce themselves and explain the procedure.
You may be asked to remove jewellery and/or items of clothing which could make scanning difficult or cause image artefacts.
Generally, you will need to remove items that are over the area to be scanned. You will be supplied with a gown if necessary.
Once you are ready, the sonographer will position you and start scanning. Most US scans will require you to lie down. You may be required to hold your breath for a brief time.
To scan you, the sonographer uses a tool called a hand-held probe, a smooth plastic block which can be curved or rectangular in shape, and is attached to the ultrasound machine. For some pelvic and pregnancy scans, a thin probe is placed internally. If this is necessary, we will discuss it at the time. Your written consent is required.
This probe is covered with clear gel and put against your skin. The gel may feel wet or sticky, but it is water soluble and washes off easily.
When the examination is completed you will return to reception.
The Radiologist (Radiology Doctor) will need to spend some time studying your scan before he reports it. The report will be faxed to your doctor.
The ultrasound films or discs are your's to keep. They should be stored flat, in a cool dry place.
If you have any questions at any stage during your visit, don’t hesitate to ask us.
Your doctor has requested that you have an ultrasound scan.
US (Ultrasound) uses sound waves to image your body in real time, without any x-ray exposure.
This is a brief outline of what you might expect to happen while you are here.
Once you have presented at reception, your personal details will be checked and entered into our computer system.
The sonographer (a specially trained technician who performs the scan) will call you through to the US scanning room, introduce themselves and explain the procedure.
You may be asked to remove jewellery and/or items of clothing which could make scanning difficult or cause image artefacts.
Generally, you will need to remove items that are over the area to be scanned. You will be supplied with a gown if necessary.
Once you are ready, the sonographer will position you and start scanning. Most US scans will require you to lie down. You may be required to hold your breath for a brief time.
To scan you, the sonographer uses a tool called a hand-held probe, a smooth plastic block which can be curved or rectangular in shape, and is attached to the ultrasound machine. For some pelvic and pregnancy scans, a thin probe is placed internally. If this is necessary, we will discuss it at the time. Your written consent is required.
This probe is covered with clear gel and put against your skin. The gel may feel wet or sticky, but it is water soluble and washes off easily.
When the examination is completed you will return to reception.
The Radiologist (Radiology Doctor) will need to spend some time studying your scan before he reports it. The report will be faxed to your doctor.
The ultrasound films or discs are your's to keep. They should be stored flat, in a cool dry place.
If you have any questions at any stage during your visit, don’t hesitate to ask us.