Ultrasound Scan
Did You Know…
- …an ultrasound scan takes no more than 10 minutes?
- …an ultrasound scan is painless? Only the ultrasound gel might feel a bit cold. In some cases, slight pressure may need to be applied to the abdomen, which can feel uncomfortable.
- …the scan is usually performed by a radiologist?
What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound (also known as a sonography or sonogram) is used to examine organs inside the body. The most well-known application of ultrasound is the pregnancy scan, which checks the health of the unborn baby.
- Note: You will need a referral from your GP for this examination.
When Is an Ultrasound Recommended?
Your GP or specialist may request an ultrasound in the following cases:
- If you experience persistent bladder issues.
- If you have ongoing abdominal or bowel discomfort.
- In case of abnormalities in the neck or skin.
- If there is suspicion of arteriosclerosis.
- If you have persistent joint pain.
How Does an Ultrasound Work?
Ultrasound waves are transmitted using a device called a transducer, which is moved over your skin. These sound waves reflect differences in tissue density. The transducer captures the reflected waves, and a computer converts the signals into images.
Ultrasound technology has been used since the 1960s. To date, no adverse effects have been reported, making it a safediagnostic method.
Want to know more? Click here for additional details.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this examination, except in specific cases.
What to Bring
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Bring your health insurance card or, if unavailable, a valid ID (passport or ID card).
- Bring your referral letter from your GP.
Do You Need to Fast?
Abdominal or kidney ultrasound: Do not eat or drink for 2 hours before the examination. However, you may have a light breakfast (such as a dry biscuit and tea) if needed. You can continue to take any prescribed medication.
- If your appointment is in the afternoon, you may have a normal breakfast in the morning.
- Ensure your bladder is full—avoid urinating for at least 2 hours before the examination.
- For skin, neck, joint, or blood vessel examinations outside the abdominal region: No fasting is required. A full bladder is not necessary.
Day of the Examination
Preparing well will ensure the examination runs smoothly and efficiently.
01. At Home
- For an abdominal or kidney ultrasound, you should fast or have only a light breakfast, and ensure your bladder is full.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Bring your health insurance card or, if unavailable, a valid ID (passport or ID card).
- Bring your referral letter from your GP.
- It’s no problem to bring someone with you for support.
02. At the Radiology Department
- Check in at the CliniX front desk 10 minutes before your appointment time.
- The receptionist will direct you to the waiting area. Always check in first—do not go directly to the waiting room, as the staff needs to confirm your arrival.
- There may be multiple people in the waiting room for different types of examinations, so someone who arrives after you may be called in earlier depending on their test.
03. The Examination
- A radiology technologist will escort you to a changing room.
- You will undress the part of your body being examined. Wait calmly in the changing room until you are called.
- The technologist or radiologist will guide you on how to position yourself on the examination table.
- Ultrasound gel will be applied to your skin to improve contact between the transducer and your body. The transducer is moved across your skin while the technician studies the live images on the screen.
- The procedure is painless, though some pressure may be applied to your abdomen to obtain clearer images.
04. After the Examination
The results will be sent to your GP or referring physician. They will contact you to discuss the findings.
Results
The GP or specialist who requested the examination will receive the results within 24 hours. They will contact you to discuss the findings.
Risks and Complications
Ultrasound technology has been used since the 1960s. To date, no adverse effects have been reported. Therefore, an ultrasound is considered a safe diagnostic method.
Costs and Insurance Coverage
If the examination was requested by your GP, it is generally covered by your health insurance provider. View the coverage overview for more information.
Waiting Time
We have a short waiting time—you can schedule an appointment within 2 working days.
Schedule an Appointment
To schedule an appointment, please contact us at:
Phone: (075) 650 29 75
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Important: You will need a referral from your GP for this procedure.