Ultrasound Scanning

Overview

Ultrasound is a type of scanning technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of structures inside the body. It is also known as sonography or medical sonography.

When It’s Done

Ultrasound is recommended depending on the symptoms and for:

• The assessment of a breast lump
• The assessment of the foetus inside the uterus during pregnancy
• The evaluation of the thyroid gland
• The diagnosis of cancer
• The diagnosis of infections
• The diagnosis of a gallbladder disease
• Assessing abnormalities of muscles and tendons

When To Avoid

There is no specific condition when this scan should be avoided.

How To Prepare

Most of the times, no special preparation is required and it depends on which area of your body needs to be examined.

Gallbladder Examination: Avoid eating and drinking for up to 6 hours before the test.

Pelvic Ultrasound: Drink lots of water and do not urinate before the scan is performed, which allows for the better visualisation of the uterus, ovaries or the prostate.