Ultrasound
What is an Ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the inside of your body. It’s commonly used to assess organs, blood vessels, pregnancy and muscles/tendons. There is no ionising radiation.
What can ultrasound assess?
- Abdomen & liver/gallbladder/pancreas/spleen
- Kidneys & bladder
- Pelvis (female & male)
- Pregnancy (early and later stages)
- Musculoskeletal (shoulder, elbow, wrist/hand, hip, knee, ankle/foot)
- Thyroid & neck, salivary glands
- Breast
- Scrotum/testes
- Vascular/Doppler (carotids, leg veins/arteries)
How long does it take?
Most examinations take 30 minutes. More detailed or multiple-area studies may take up to 45 minutes.
How to prepare
Preparation depends on the area being scanned. We’ll confirm your instructions when you book.
- Abdomen (liver/gallbladder/pancreas): Fast for 6 hours. Small sips of water and regular medications are fine unless advised otherwise.
- Kidneys/Bladder: Drink 1 litre of water 1 hour before and do not empty your bladder until after the scan.
- Pelvis & Pregnancy: Arrive with a comfortably full bladder (drink 1 litre of water 1 hour before).
- Musculoskeletal, Thyroid/Neck, Breast, Scrotum: No preparation
What happens during the scan?
A sonographer places warm gel on your skin and moves a small handheld probe over the area. You may feel gentle pressure and be asked to hold your breath or change position. For blood-flow studies (Doppler), you’ll hear whooshing sounds from the machine, this is normal.
Transvaginal ultrasound (if recommended):
For some pelvic or early pregnancy studies, an internal (transvaginal) scan gives clearer images. This is optional and performed only with your consent.
Is Ultrasound safe?
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves and has an excellent safety record. There is no exposure to X-rays.
What to bring
- Your doctor’s referral
- Medicare card (if applicable)
- Any previous imaging and reports
After your scan
You can resume normal activities immediately. A specialist radiologist will review your images and send a report to your referring doctor. Your doctor will discuss the results with you.
What to bring?
- Your doctor’s referral
- Medicare card (if applicable)
- Any previous relevant imaging or reports
Bookings & enquiries
Appointments are available throughout the week, and many scans can be arranged promptly. Contact Northside Imaging to book or ask a question.
This information is general and does not replace advice from your doctor.