What is an Ultrasound?
An Ultrasound scan uses high frequency sound waves to create pictures of soft tissues (e.g., muscles, glands) and organs inside the body (e.g., kidneys). The non-audible sound passing into your body is safe because it doesn’t use radiation. That is why Ultrasound is often used for monitoring the growing child in pregnancy.
Ultrasound equipment uses a specialised handheld camera (Transducer) which the Sonographer places against your skin and moves around the area being imaged. The transducer emits sound and detects the returning echoes from the target area and this information is converted to a moving image displayed on a screen.
How do I prepare for my Ultrasound?
Upper Abdomen / Liver / Gallbladder / Pancreas / Aorta:
- Do not eat or drink for 6 hours prior to your appointment.
- You may empty your bladder & and take medication as usual.
Lower Abdomen / Kidneys / Bladder / Pelvis / Prostate / Pregnancy (prior to 12 weeks):
- 1½ hours before your appointment, empty your bladder.
- Over the next 30 minutes, drink 5 glasses of water.
- Don’t empty your bladder after this.
Pregnancy (prior to 12 weeks):
- 1½ hours before your appointment, empty your bladder.
- Over the next 30 minutes, drink 5 glasses of water.
- Don’t empty your bladder after this.
Musculoskeletal / Carotid / Thyroid / Breast / Testicular / Leg veins / Echocardiography / Pregnancy (after 12 weeks):
- No preparation required.
How long will it take?
Usually ultrasound examinations are completed within 30 minutes. When the examination is complete, you may be asked to dress and wait while the ultrasound images are reviewed.
Do we do pregnancy ultrasounds?
Yes, 1st trimester pregnancy ultrasound scans for dating performed between 6-12 weeks, 2nd trimester performed between 19-21 weeks and 3rd trimester growth scans are routinely done at our practice.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, please call your local practice to make an appointment.
How much does an Ultrasound cost?
Quantum Medical Imaging has invested in state-of-the-art imaging equipment. Most examinations and procedures are bulk billed. An out-of-pocket expense (gap) may apply for some services. If this is the case, our reception staff will inform you at the time of booking.
Do you accept all referrals?
Quantum Medical Imaging accepts referrals from all radiology providers.