Ultrasound guide
http://www.allieddiagnostics.net/patient-guides/ultrasound-guide/
Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses high frequency sound waves and a computer to obtain a medical image of various organs, vessels, and tissues within the body. With no injection of contrast or radiation exposure, ultrasound is a safe, effective way to view internal organs as they function and to assess blood flow through various organs.
Allied Diagnostics is equipped with the latest GE 3D and 4D ultrasound systems that enable real time techniques for acquiring, navigating and analyzing images.
How do I prepare for my Scan?
To ensure the best quality images are generated by the sound waves certain preparation is required depending on the type of exam you are having.
Breast ultrasound
No preparation is required. Appointments can be made at your convenience. It is very important to bring all previous breast imaging (previous MRI, mammogram and ultrasound) reports and CD images/films on the day of the exam for the radiologist to review and to have a comprehensive impression of your breast health.
Upper abdominal scan
For a study of the upper abdomen (i.e. liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas) you are required to fast for at least 8 hours prior to the exam. During that time, only drink clear, still water or black tea. Do not drink any dairy products (laban, yogurt, milk) or fizzy carbonated drinks.
Lower abdominal scan
For a study of the lower abdomen (i.e. kidneys, ureter, bladder, renal) you are required to drink 1.5 liters of water one hour before the exam to fill your bladder. It is essential you have a full bladder prior to your exam.
Full abdominal (upper and lower) exam
For a study of the upper and lower abdomen you are required to fast for at least 8 hours prior to the exam. During that time, only drink clear, still water or black tea. Do not drink any dairy products (laban, yogurt, milk) or fizzy carbonated drinks. One hour before your exam you are required to drink 1.5 liters of water one hour before the exam to fill your bladder. It is essential you have a full bladder prior to your exam.
Pelvic exam
For a study of the pelvic area (i.e. pelvis, reproductive or gynaecological system) you are required to drink 1.5 liters of water one hour before your exam to fill your bladder. It is essential you have a full bladder prior to your exam.
Obstetrical exam
If you are less than 18 weeks pregnant you are required to drink 1.5 liters colour of water one hour before your exam to fill your bladder. It is essential you have a full bladder prior to your exam.
If you are more than 18 weeks pregnant you are required to drink 2 glasses of water one hour before your exam to fill your bladder. It is essential you have a full bladder prior to your exam.
What can I expect during my ultrasound?
Before your ultrasound study begins at Allied Diagnostics you will be asked to change into a comfortable gown.Your ultrasound study will be performed by one of our specialist Sonography technologists who will position you on the examination table.
Next, warm gel will be applied to the area of the body being studied. The technologist will move the ultrasound transducer over this area as images are recorded in real time by the computer. Although the technologist can see the images on the computer screen, he or she is not at liberty to discuss any of the results with you. However, the technologist or radiologist will answer any other questions that arise during the procedure. Ultrasound procedures typically take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the part of the body being studied.
Is it safe?
Ultrasound scanning is perfectly safe. It uses sound waves, not radiation. A major advantage of ultrasound is that the images appear in ‘real time’ so the movement of muscles, tendons, organs and blood flow can all be visualised.
Should I be concerned if the radiologist comes into the room to review my study?
No, the radiologist often comes into the room to check or confirm certain findings. A visit by the radiologist is not an indication of abnormal results.
Can ultrasound replace mammography?
No, ultrasound should only be used as a complementary examination to mammography. Ultrasound of the breast is used to evaluate masses, palpable abnormalities, and dense breast tissue. Ultrasound can also be used for visual guidance during certain biopsies and drainage procedures.
Comprehensive breast ultrasound can be performed quickly, yielding high-quality images critical for establishing accurate diagnosis. In addition to mammography, ultrasound can help differentiate between solid and cystic lesions. It is the gold standard of imaging for younger women and women with dense breasts.
When will I get the results?
The results of your scan will be sent to your referring physician within 24 hours of your exam. Your report and images will include a summary of the radiologist’s findings and recommendations for further follow-up.
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