Ultrasound imaging, also known as sonography, is a safe and painless diagnostic tool that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of your body.
What is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that uses sound waves to create real-time images of your internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, ultrasounds do not use radiation, making them a safer option for various patient groups, including pregnant women and children.
When is an Ultrasound Needed?
Ultrasounds are versatile and are often used to diagnose or monitor a range of medical conditions. Common applications include:
- Pregnancy: To monitor fetal development and assess the baby’s health.
- Abdominal Issues: To evaluate organs such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, gallbladder, and bladder.
- Heart Conditions: Through echocardiography, ultrasounds can examine heart function and structure.
- Musculoskeletal Injuries: To assess joints, tendons, and muscles for injuries or abnormalities.
- Blood Flow Issues: Doppler ultrasounds evaluate blood circulation, helping diagnose conditions like deep vein thrombosis or peripheral artery disease.
- Pelvic Concerns: For issues involving the uterus, ovaries, or prostate.
Kingsbridge Hospital routinely performs the most common Ultrasound examinations
- General abdominal/pelvic (tummy)
- Musculoskeletal
- Colour Doppler scanning (shows blood flow)
- Peripheral vascular regions such as leg and neck arteries
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening
What Happens During an Ultrasound?
- Preparation: Depending on the type of ultrasound, you may need to follow specific instructions, such as fasting for several hours or drinking water to fill your bladder.
- Arrival and Setup: Once at the imaging center or hospital, you will be asked to lie on an examination table. A technician or radiologist will explain the procedure and answer any questions.
- Application of Gel: A special gel is applied to your skin over the area being examined. This gel helps transmit sound waves more effectively.
- Use of a Transducer: The technician will use a handheld device called a transducer, which emits sound waves and captures the echoes as they bounce back from your internal structures. The transducer is gently moved over your skin to obtain the best images.
- Real-Time Imaging: The sound waves are converted into images displayed on a monitor. The technician may ask you to change positions or hold your breath momentarily to get clearer images.
- Duration: Most ultrasounds take 15-30 minutes, though more complex exams may take longer.
Benefits of Ultrasound
- Non-Invasive: No incisions or injections are required.
- Safe: No exposure to ionizing radiation.
- Painless: The procedure is generally comfortable, with minimal to no discomfort.
- Real-Time Imaging: Provides immediate visuals, aiding in swift diagnosis.
After the Ultrasound
- You can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
- A radiologist will analyse the images and send a report to your doctor, who will discuss the results with you.
Is a Referral Required?
A medical referral is required. Please allow 20 minutes for your appointment and results will be issued to the referral source within within 5 working days of the scan.
*Prices accurate as of September 2024 and may be subject to change.
For clinicians who would like to refer a patient, please use either option below
Help Desk
All Treatments & Surgeries
Make A Payment
GP Information
