What is the exam?
An ultrasound scan is a diagnostic imaging method used to reproduce images of internal organs, tissues, vascular network and blood flow by means of ultrasound.
Ultrasound refers to sound waves with frequencies above 20,000 cycles per second (Hz), which are above human hearing levels.
The equipment, called a probe, sends sound waves to the area to be studied. These waves are reflected back to the transducer and then converted into two-dimensional images. These images are captured in real time, instantly showing the position of the internal organs, tissues and blood flow. Ultrasound is used to diagnose and monitor diseases and also used in surgical procedures.
How is it done?
This is a simple, painless examination. This is an exam performed only by doctors in which, under their instruction, patients lie down on the examination table and a conductive gel is applied to the area to be studied. This improves the capture of images by the probe. The image formed by the ultrasound scanner is shown on a monitor in real time and stored digitally after the exam.
Patient recommendations:
• Wear comfortable clothing.
• Follow all of the doctor’s instructions.
• Avoid eating or drinking fizzy drinks before the abdominal scan because this could cause flatulence.
Procedures:
Obstetric Ultrasound
An obstetric ultrasound scan is an important part of adequate ante-natal monitoring.
It confirms the diagnosis and location of the pregnancy, allowing the well-being of the embryo/foetus to be identified.
In cases of risk pregnancy, this ultrasound is essential, as it shows the position of the placenta, its development and the amount of amniotic fluid. It also measures blood flow.
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Breast Ultrasound
This should be performed as a supplement to a mammogram if the mammogram has been performed within the last 6 months and when the patient is pregnant and under 28 years of age.
No preparation required.
Ultrasound Scan of the Scrotum
This is an assessment of the scrotal sac, testicles, epididymis and spermatic cord.
It allows the detection of tumours, infections, varicocele, hydrocele and other abnormalities.
Ultrasound of the Soft Tissues
This is a study of the soft tissues in general and osteoarticular tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, etc.). It enables the detection of traumatic and inflammatory pathologies, among others, and allows the location and dimensions of nodules and other superficial lesions to be studied.
It also allows the detection of abdominal wall hernias.
No preparation required.
Ultrasound of the Bladder
This is a study of the urinary bladder.
It allows the detection of tumoural pathologies and bladder stones, as well as an assessment of bladder wall thickness and post-voiding residue.
Preparation:
Do not urinate within 2 hours of the exam; drink 1 litre of water 1 hour before exam.
Abdominal Ultrasound
This is a routine exam.
It is a first-line diagnostic test for a large number of pathologies of the upper abdomen, especially those involving the liver, spleen, pancreas, gall bladder, abdominal masses and intra-abdominal fluid.
Preparation:
6-hour fasting period.
Gynaecological/Pelvic Ultrasound Scan (Female)
This is a routine exam.
It is a first-line diagnostic test for pathologies of the uterus and ovaries, monitoring of IUD placement, etc.
Preparation:
Suprapubic ultrasound: Do not urinate within 2 hours of the exam; drink 1 litre of water 1 hour before exam.
Endovaginal ultrasound: No preparation required.
Ultrasound Scan of the Kidneys
This is a routine exam.
It is an assessment of the kidneys in the context of high blood pressure or chronic kidney failure (CKF), neuropathy, detection of kidney stones, hydronephrosis, tumoural lesions, cysts, etc.
No preparation is required.
Prostate/Pelvic Ultrasound Scan (Male)
This is a routine exam or used to detect pathologies of the prostate and seminal vesicles, namely inflammatory changes, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or tumoural lesions. Endorectal ultrasound: This has a considerable advantage when studying the peripheral prostate gland, with greater reliability in determining the size, volume and shape of the prostate (therapeutic indicators).
Preparation:
Suprapubic ultrasound: Do not urinate within 2 hours of the exam; drink 1 litre of water 1 hour before exam.
Endorectal ultrasound: Enema using Microlax® at bedtime on the night before the exam. Enema using Microlax® on the morning of the exam.
