Ultrasound
What is an ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a noninvasive medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to capture, and produce real-time images or videos of the internal organs, as well as other soft tissues, like blood vessels, tendons, and muscles without the use of ionising radiation. It is an essential tool in preventive, and routine health screenings due to its safe, noninvasive, and real-time monitoring nature. As such, this enables doctors to see, and determine if there are any issues with the organs, tissues, and vessels without the need for surgical probes.
While there are different types of ultrasounds designed for an array of medical circumstances, at Ardennes Health, we offer:
| Type | Organs/Areas Involved |
| Abdomen | — Gallbladder — Kidney — Liver — Pancreas — Spleen |
| Breast | — Breasts |
| Hepatobiliary system (HBS) | — Gallbladder — Liver — Pancreas |
| Kidney | — Kidneys |
| KUB | — Kidney — Ureters — Bladder |
| Neck | — Thyroid — Lymph nodes |
| Pelvis transabdominal (TA) | — External pelvic |
| Pelvis transvaginal (TV) | — Internal pelvic |
| Prostate (transabdominal) | — Prostate |
| Superficial lump | — Anywhere in the body |
| Testes | — Testicles |
| Thyroid | — Thyroid gland |
How does an ultrasound work?
An ultrasound uses a transducer to send sound waves into the body, which bounce off the structures inside your body, and send them back to the transducer. These waves are then converted into electrical signals that translate into real-time images or videos, which are then displayed on a computer screen. Through these images and videos, doctors can visualise the internal organs, tissues, and even blood flow.
What benefits does an ultrasound offer?
Some of the benefits of an ultrasound include:
- Convenient and efficient
- No downtime
- Non-invasive procedure.
- Painless experience
- Portability
- Produces clear and dynamic real-time images in detail
- Safety (no radiation)
- A great alternative for patients who are unsuitable for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Why or when is an ultrasound typically recommended?
Some of the situations or scenarios that may require an ultrasound are:
- To determine the presence of a tumour or cyst.
- To evaluate the digestive, urinary, or reproductive system.
- To examine the internal organs such as the kidneys, liver, pancreas, ovaries, and more.
- To help in disease prevention.
- To monitor, and examine existing conditions or symptoms.
- To function as part of a health screening to ensure your insides are functioning healthily, and optimally.
How is an ultrasound performed?
An ultrasound scan is typically performed by an ultrasound technician, sometimes called a sonographer. While the preparation for an ultrasound exam varies depending on the type, and the part of the body that will be scanned, the procedure generally entails:
- You will be asked to either lie on your back, or side on an examination couch.
- The medical technician, or sonographer, will first apply a small amount of gel directly on top of the examination area.
- The medical technician, or sonographer, proceeds to move a transducer over the gel to capture the images of your internal organ, and its surrounding structures.
- Once the medical technician or sonographer has obtained sufficient images, they will then clean any gel residue.
The procedure typically takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes at most. However, it may last longer for more complex, and extensive cases, such as examining multiple organs.
What results can I expect?
Following an ultrasound, a radiologist will analyse the images and the videos. Once they have attained a definitive finding, the results will be interpreted for you.
In the event they find any abnormalities, our doctor may recommend additional diagnostic methods, like a CT scan, x-ray, MRI, or biopsy. Additionally, our doctor may also begin outlining a treatment plan to treat these abnormalities immediately. On the other hand, if no abnormalities are found, then our doctor may advise you to schedule a follow-up appointment for health screening purposes.
How many ultrasound sessions are needed?
The frequency of an ultrasound will depend on your results. Although some patients with unsatisfactory results may require follow-up appointments, others may be advised to undergo an annual ultrasound examination for health screening purposes.
In fact, if you are looking to undergo a health screening for personal, or professional purposes, or to have certain symptoms investigated, then we encourage you to get in touch with us (link to contact us page) to schedule an appointment. Regain autonomy over your health by staying a step ahead.
Frequently asked questions
How is an ultrasound different from an x-ray?
The key difference between an x-ray, and an ultrasound is the technology. While an x-ray uses radiation, an ultrasound uses sound waves. Additionally, an x-ray offers a visualisation of the organs, and bone structures. However, an ultrasound captures images of the internal structures.
Is an ultrasound painful?
No, an ultrasound is not painful. If you experience any pain, or discomfort during the procedure, then do speak up, and inform your doctor, or ultrasound technician.
How should I prepare for an ultrasound?
Prior to the ultrasound examination, you are advised to arrive at least 20 minutes before your appointment. Similarly, we encourage you to wear loose, comfortable clothing, and to refrain from wearing jewellery, or accessories.
Additionally, depending on the type of ultrasound you will be undergoing, remember to follow these tips to prepare for your appointment:
| Type | Preparation |
| AbdomenHBS | Refrain from eating, or drinking 6 hours before the examRefrain from eating anti-diabetic medication on the morning of your exam. You may continue your medication once the examination is completed.You may continue eating your prescription medicines normally. |
| KidneyKUBPelvis | You are advised to have at least 500ml water in the bladder and to hold the bladder. |
| Breast | You do not need to refrain from eating, or drinking.You do not need to apply any lotion, powder, or any substances on your breasts.We encourage you to wear clothes that will make it easier for you to slip on, and off. |
| Neck | You may continue eating, and drinking normally as there is no special preparations needed prior to the examination. |
| Prostate | You may resume eating, and drinking normally. |
| Superficial lumpTestesThyroid | No special preparations required. |
Our clinic staff will inform you of the necessary preparation before your appointment.
Are there any risks that I should be aware of?
Ultrasounds are non-invasive, and low-risk in nature.
Are there any disadvantages to ultrasounds?
Yes, there are some limitations. These limitations include:
- Inaccurate readings.
- Inflexible scanning methods.
- Limited testing distance.
However, rest assured that these limitations are easily overcome with the right tools, and under the guidance of a trained, and qualified doctor or sonographer.