This video will help you to prepare and know what to expect. Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to obtain pictures of the inside of your body. It’s popular because it doesn't expose you to any radiation, is very quick, and is non-invasive. It has been used without any side effects for over thirty years.
For this scan, you will need to expose your entire abdomen, so make sure you wear loose fitting clothes. Depending on whether we are scanning your abdomen, pelvis, or your kidneys and bladder your invite letter will advise you whether you have to starve before the scan. If you have to starve, you can still drink clear fluids, but not milk. Diabetics can have one piece of toast, but should not have butter.
When you are called into the examination room you will be met by one of our specialist medical team and occasionally, an assistant. The room is quite dark so that it is easier to see the images of your body on the screen. Please ask if you have any questions or concerns about the examination.
You will be asked to lie flat on the couch clear gel will be put on your abdomen. We will then use a probe to take pictures. The probe will be moved over your skin and images will appear on a screen. You may experience some pushing as the probe is positioned. So that your internal organs can be seen more clearly. This should not be painful, but may be a little uncomfortable. You will be asked to change position and breathe deeply to help us get the the images we need.
Sometimes it is necessary to scan the organs in your pelvis. For this, the we will examine further down your abdomen and will ask you to shuffle your waist band down to just over your hips. The scan will take up to 20 minutes. Once it is complete, you will be given some tissue to wipe the gel off your abdomen and then you can get dressed and go to the toilet if needed.
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