Ultrasound
It is a specialized examination that uses sound
waves and special instruments
to obtain information of structures inside
your body. This method of examination does not use x-rays, and has no
known side effects on your body.
When you have seen a doctor and you are told that you
would need an ultrasound examination, you will be required to seek an
appointment, or the appointment is sought on your behalf at the Health
Centre.
You will come to the Radiology service and hand your
request form to the receptionist. You might be given some
instructions, which would be best for you to follow.
For some examinations, there are some preparations
that when followed would lead to a more useful examination.
Preparations
for the examination:
For
upper abdomen ultrasound scan
There is need for food restriction prior to the
ultrasound scan so as to prevent interference with your examination.
This is achieved by refraining from taking breakfast
if your examination is in the morning session, and to skip lunch if your
test is in the afternoon.
If you have been prescribed medication, you should
continue to take them, except for anti-diabetic treatment, if you are on
food restriction.
Plain water, as well as clear tea can be consumed
before the scan.
Please refrain from smoking
on the day of appointment.
For
Pelvis, Urinary Bladder or Prostate Ultrasound Scan
It is preferable to drink several glasses of water at
least 1 hour before your appointment, and you should not empty your
bladder until the examination is over.
For
Neck or Superficial Tissues
No preparation is required.
The
Examination
When called into the examination room, you will
be asked to lie on the couch.
A thick, water-based gel, will be applied on your
body over the region to be examined. This gel facilitates the transmission
of sound waves into your body to produce the desired images.
A radiologist will conduct and interpret your
examination, and send the results to your doctor.
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