Ultrasound, also called sonography, is an examination that uses high-frequency sound waves far above the range of human hearing to obtain images of the inside of the body. This imaging technique is becoming increasingly important in the diagnosis of medical conditions in many different organs. It is also used to evaluate pregnancy conditions.

Ultrasound is completely safe and has been used for decades. There is no radiotion used in this examination and there are no known health risks associated with sonography

Available techniques

• Ultrasound examination for different body parts including neck, abdomen, pelvis, muscles, joints, scrotum, etc.
• Doppler studies for venous & arterial systems all over the body.
• Dedicated echocardiographic equipment for cardiac examination.
• Endocavitary probes for trans vaginal & trans rectal technique.

Preparation/instructions

For an examination of the abdominal region, the patient should fast without consuming any solid food for atleast 8 hours proir to the scheduled examination.

It is advised to drink a lot of water before the examination, so as to fill up the urinary bladder. This aids in better examining the abdomen. Acceptable foods include fruit juices, coffee or tea without milk and water.

Any prescribed medications can be taken prior to the exam. In case you have been prescribed a regular dose of insulin, you must consult with your physician prior to the exam.

Other forms of  ultrasound examination like thyroid, scrotal etc, do not require any special preparation.

The procedure

The procedure usually takes approximately 10-45 minutes and depends on  the region of interest and the specifics of the imaging and examination requested by your physician.

Once in the ultrasound examination room, you will be asked to change into a gown and provide a brief medical history. You will then be placed on a stretcher. In order to obtain quality images, we will need to place a water-based gel on your abdomen. A plastic device called a transducer will be placed over the abdominal area and moved back and forth to obtain the images necessary to answer your physician's questions.

You can make an appointment for your ultrasound with the Al Safwa Radiology Centre, Sharjah. Our staff will assist you with any question related to your ultrasound.