Ultrasound scan – On The Day

What is an Ultrasound scan?

An ultrasound scan is a test that involves taking pictures of the body using sound waves. Ultrasound can be used to look at all soft tissue structures and blood vessels. Pulses of ultrasound are sent through the skin into your body which then echo (‘bounce back’) from the various parts of the body, creating an image. The scan is carried out by an ultrasonographer and the images are recorded and interpreted in order to make a diagnosis. There are no side effects from this examination.

Before your appointment

No preparation is required prior to your examination.

If you require assistance, would like to be accompanied by somebody to help with language interpretation or would wish to be escorted by a friend, relative or carer, please advise the Vista Booking staff.

Please arrive 5 minutes before your appointment time; if you are late we may not be able to carry out your scan. Please do not bring children to your appointment

On arrival

On arrival one of our staff will explain the procedure to you and answer any further questions you may have. You may be asked to undress and put on an examination gown.

The examination

You will be asked to lie down on a couch. Some lubricating gel will be applied to the part of the body to be scanned. This gel enables the clinician to get better contact between your skin and the ultrasound probe. The probe is similar to a very thick blunt pen and is connected by a wire to an ultrasound machine and monitor. Pulses of ultrasound are sent from the probe through the skin to the part of the body under examination. The probe is gently moved over the surface of the skin and an image is produced on the monitor.

How will I get the results?

The ultrasound report will be received by the doctor who referred you for your ultrasound scan. You should telephone to confirm that they have received your report before arranging an appointment, unless the doctor has made different arrangements with you. The sonographer cannot explain the results of the test to you. You need to discuss this with your GP or consultant.

Giving your consent for the procedure

The information contained within this leaflet is intended to provide you with an overview of the examination or treatment that you are to receive. Prior to any medical procedure being carried out, the healthcare professional conducting the procedure will describe the nature of the examination or treatment you are to receive. It is your right to be given sufficient information to be able to make an informed decision as to whether you wish to consent to the examination/treatment or to refuse to undergo the procedure. Please ask any questions you may have.

This examination requires your verbal consent only