An ultrasound is performed to check whether anything abnormal can be seen in a specific part of the body. This may involve organs, muscles, or blood vessels, for example.
Ultrasound is an imaging examination that uses sound waves. These sounds cannot be heard by humans. The sound waves are sent into the body using an ultrasound device, which is placed against the skin. Before the examination, the doctor applies a gel to your skin to ensure proper conduction of the sound waves. The sound waves travel through the body and are reflected by the organs.
Information about ultrasound.
Preparation
Preparation
An ultrasound is an examination that uses sound waves to create images of the body. These sound waves cannot be heard. An ultrasound device sends the sound waves into the body through the skin. Before starting the examination, the doctor or radiographer applies a special gel to your skin. This gel ensures that the sound waves travel properly and may feel a bit cold. The sound waves bounce off organs and tissues, creating an image on the screen.
An ultrasound is performed to check whether anything abnormal can be seen in a specific part of the body. This may involve organs, muscles, or blood vessels, for example.
Depending on the area being examined, you may need to partially undress. This prevents the gel from getting on your clothing. During the examination, you will lie on an examination table. The ultrasound is performed by a ultrasound technician or radiologist. The transducer (the small device that is moved over your skin) sends sound waves into the body and receives them again. The images are viewed on the screen at the same time. The examination is not painful and usually takes about fifteen minutes.
For some ultrasounds, preparation is needed to obtain clear images. If preparation is required in your case, you will be informed by our scheduling team when making the appointment. You can also find these instructions in your appointment confirmation.
It is important to follow these instructions carefully. If the preparation is not carried out correctly, the examination may not be possible and a new appointment will need to be scheduled.
For an abdominal ultrasound (upper abdomen), you are often required to fast for several hours beforehand.
For an ultrasound of the bladder or lower abdomen, you may be asked to arrive with a full bladder.
After the examination, the radiologist reviews the images and prepares a report.
This report is sent to the referring doctor (in most cases your GP) within 24 hours.
You should contact your (GP) doctor to schedule an appointment to discuss the results.
This examination takes approximately 15 minutes.
This research may be sensitive or painful, but it is relatively quick.
How you need to prepare depends on the type of examination.
Ultrasound can be used to examine different parts of the body. Depending on the area being examined, specific preparation may be required. In the brochure, you will find detailed information about what is expected of you before the examination.