Abdominal and Pelvis Ultrasound

Before

An ultrasound scan is a safe procedure and does not involve the use of X-rays, and is used to examine the organs of the abdomen and pelvis.

Is there any preparation for this examination?

Yes. Do not eat anything for 6 hours before your appointment time. You may drink as much water or squash as you want. At least 1 hour before your appointment drink one and a half pints of water or squash. Do not empty your bladder until after your scan.

You will need to undress for the examination, so you may prefer to wear clothes which are easily removed. It is advisable to leave items of jewellery at home.

Can I take prescribed medication?

Yes. Continue taking prescribed medication as normal. It is very important to continue your diuretics (“water tablets”) If you stop taking them we may not be able to complete your scan.

The Examination

If your bladder is not full you may have to wait in the unit until it is full enough to complete the scan. You will be asked to undress and put on a unit gown. You will lie on the scanning table and a gel is applied to your abdomen. This allows us to perform the scan. A small probe is then placed on your abdomen and moved around.

This is a painless procedure but you will feel the probe as it is pressed on your body. To obtain good images, some pressure has to be used, but if you feel uncomfortable please tell the Radiologist. You may also have to hold your breath for a few seconds during the scan.

When the scan is finished, the gel will be wiped off and you will be able to leave.

After

As soon as the scan is finished you will be able to empty your bladder.

Will there be any after effects?

No. The scan will not affect you in any way. You will be able to drive home. You can also eat and drink normally.

How will I get the results?

The results of the scan are not available on the day of the scan.

The images are studied later by a Consultant Radiologist . A report is then sent to the Consultant who requested your scan.