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What is an ultrasound scan?

An ultrasound scan is a picture of part of the inside of the body using sound waves of a frequency above the audible range of the human ear. A small hand-held sensor, which is pressed carefully against the skin surface, generates sound waves and detects any echoes reflected back off the surfaces and tissue boundaries of internal organs. The sensor can be moved over the skin to view the organ from different angles, the pictures being displayed on a screen and recorded for subsequent study.

Ultrasound images complement other forms of scans and are widely used for many different parts of the body. They can also be used to study blood flow and to detect any narrowing or blockage of blood vessels called as Doppler Sonography.

An transvaginal ultrasound scan is also occasionally used to examine womb or ovaries or early in pregnancy to locate the pregnancy. For this examinations, it may be necessary to place an ultrasound probe in the vagina to look at internal structures.

Are you required to make any special preparations?

Some preparation may be required if your pelvis, kidney or bladder are to be scanned, you may be required to ensure that your bladder is full before the examination can begin. For Transvaginal sonography bladder should be empty.

Can you bring a relative/husband?

Yes. However, it may not be suitable for someone to remain in the scanning room if you undergo an intimate examination.

When you arrive ?

Please arrive on time and bring your identity proof which is mandatory for pregnancy sonography. We need to fill up online details of yours as per PCPNDT Guideline. This will take 10 minutes.

Who will you see?

You will be seen by Dr Manila Kaushal or a sonographer depending upon the type of investigation you are having.

What happens during the scan?

You will be taken into a room where you will be asked to lie down on a couch; the room may be dimmed so that the pictures on the screen can be seen more clearly. A gel will be applied to your skin over the area to be scanned, for example, the abdomen. The gel allows the sensor to slide easily over the skin and helps to produce clearer pictures.

You may be asked to take deep breaths and to hold your breath for a few moments. For a scan of the bladder, the bladder may occasionally not be full enough for the examination and you may be asked to drink more fluid, and wait while the bladder fills up.

The sonographer will slowly move the sensor over your skin while viewing the images on the screen. Records of selected images will be made so that they can be viewed later. Upon completion, the gel will be wiped off and you will be free to get dressed.

Will it be uncomfortable?

An ultrasound scan itself does not produce discomfort and apart from the sensor on your skin you will not feel anything. If a full bladder is required, though, there may be some associated discomfort. Occasionally it may be necessary to apply some pressure to the skin surface,this may increase the amount of pain coming from that organ temporarily.

How long will it take?

The process of carrying out a scan usually takes about 10–15 minutes. Unless you are delayed, for example, by emergency patients, your total time is likely to be about 30–40 minutes.

Are there any risks?

No, there are no known risks and it is considered to be very safe.

Can you eat and drink afterwards?

Yes, if you have no further tests scheduled for the same day – please check first.

When will you get the results?

The scan will be examined after your visit and a written report on the findings sent to your referring doctor which is normally available in 14 days.