Ultrasound is a medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the human body. It is a non-invasive and safe way to visualize soft tissues, organs, and blood flow to aid in diagnosis and treatment of a variety of medical conditions.
The Radiologist will apply some jelly to the part being scanned which allows the ultrasound beam to penetrate through the skin and create the image. Ultrasound is a “real time” imaging modality, where movement is seen in real time on the screen.
Our ultrasound scans are performed by a Consultant Radiologist, rather than a technician. This allows you to discuss the results of your scan and any treatment implications with our experienced professionals.
For intimate studies (breast, gynaecological, testes or prostate), we aim to provide you with your choice of either a male or female consultant.
Routine studies
Ultrasound is a routinely used as the first line of investigation for a wide variety of conditions. It is typically used in the investigation of abdominal or pelvic pain. It is routinely used in gynaecological assessment using both transabdominal and internal (transvaginal) probes.
US is the best tool for assessing the testes, thyroid gland and lumps in the neck. It is particularly useful in the assessment of large blood vessels in the body.
Specialist studies
In conditions requiring a biopsy, US is often used by the Radiologist to obtain tissue samples safely and quickly – particularly in the liver, neck, breast and prostate gland.
The Kent and Sussex Radiology group are proud to offer cutting edge techniques using “microbubble” technology which requires a small injection of a contrast agent into a vein. This allows an extremely detailed assessment of the liver providing a safe alternative to MRI or CT for the investigation of liver lesions in the correct clinical setting. Already well established in European radiology, we have over 5 years experience and can offer the service on state of the art ultrasound machines. We also use this technology is the assessment of some breast cancer patients.
Many ultrasound studies require no preparation. Ultrasound scanning of the abdomen will normally require the patient to be fasted. Ultrasound scanning of the pelvis requires a full bladder and patients will be instructed to drink a moderate volume of water so that they have a relatively full bladder.
At the power levels used for diagnostic ultrasound, no identifiable risks have been proven and ultrasound is considered safe. Adverse reaction to microbubble contrast agent is extremely rare.