For example, a woman undergoing an investigation of her pelvis may have a transvaginal scan, which involves inserting a special ultrasound probe into the vagina rather than or as well as scanning through the front of the pelvis. An ultrasound scan usually takes around 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the type of examination. After the procedure, the sonographer will give you paper towels or something similar to wipe off the gel. You can then get dressed.
The results of the ultrasound scan are usually sent to your doctor, so you will have to make a follow-up appointment with them to get the results.
Most ultrasound scans are non-invasive and the procedure does not involve the use of ionising radiation such as x-rays. Ultrasound scans for pregnant women are now considered routine in Australia.
Most people can go about their normal business once they have finished the ultrasound examination. Treatment — if any — depends on the reason for your scan.
For example, fibroids detected during a scan may be surgically removed myomectomy , shrunk with medications or simply monitored. Other conditions detected by an ultrasound scan, such as abdominal masses, may need further tests or exploratory surgery. This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:. Allergy testing is used to find which substances provoke an allergic reaction. Barium tests are used to examine conditions of the digestive tract such as reflux, narrowing or ulceration.
Doppler ultrasound can assess the flow of blood in a vessel or blood pressure. It can determine the speed of the blood flow and any obstructions. An echocardiogram ECG is an example of Doppler ultrasound.
It can be used to create images of the cardiovascular system and to measure blood flow and cardiac tissue movement at specific points. A Doppler ultrasound can assess the function and state of cardiac valve areas, any abnormalities in the heart, valvular regurgitation, or blood leaking from valves, and it can show how well the heart pumps out blood. A carotid duplex is a form of carotid ultrasonography that may include a Doppler ultrasound. This would reveal how blood cells move through the carotid arteries.
Ultrasound is often used by anesthetists to guide a needle with anesthetic solutions near nerves. Most scans take between 20 and 60 minutes. It is not normally painful, and there is no noise. In most cases, no special preparation is needed, but patients may wish to wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing. If the liver or gallbladder is affected, the patient may have to fast, or eat nothing, for several hours before the procedure.
For a scan during pregnancy, and especially early pregnancy, the patient should drink plenty of water and try to avoid urinating for some time before the test.
The scan usually takes place in the radiology department of a hospital. A doctor or a specially-trained sonographer will carry out the test. The transducer is moved over the part of the body that needs to be examined. The patient should not feel discomfort or pain. Your doctor may tell you to fast for eight to 12 hours before your ultrasound, especially if your abdomen is being examined.
Undigested food can block the sound waves, making it difficult for the technician to get a clear picture. For an examination of the gallbladder, liver, pancreas, or spleen, you may be told to eat a fat-free meal the evening before your test and then to fast until the procedure. However, you can continue to drink water and take any medications as instructed. For other examinations, you may be asked to drink a lot of water and to hold your urine so that your bladder is full and better visualized.
Be sure to tell your doctor about any prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or herbal supplements that you take before the exam. An ultrasound carries minimal risks. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, ultrasounds use no radiation. For this reason, they are the preferred method for examining a developing fetus during pregnancy. Before the exam, you will change into a hospital gown. You will most likely be lying down on a table with a section of your body exposed for the test.
An ultrasound technician, called a sonographer, will apply a special lubricating jelly to your skin. This prevents friction so they can rub the ultrasound transducer on your skin.
The transducer has a similar appearance to a microphone. The jelly also helps transmit the sound waves. The transducer sends high-frequency sound waves through your body. The waves echo as they hit a dense object, such as an organ or bone. Those echoes are then reflected back into a computer. On occasion, the radiologist may personally attend your examination to discuss your issue and view images while the procedure is being undertaken.
View the patient care page for additional information regarding patient safety. Ultrasounds are performed at most of our clinics across Adelaide, regional South Australia and in Alice Springs.
Ultrasound is a safe procedure used extensively in children as there is no radiation and no known risks. Children have ultrasound procedures done in the same way that adults do. Some scans may require a paediatric radiologist. We will inform you if this is necessary at the time of booking. As an essential service, we will remain open.
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