ULTRASOUND

WHAT IS AN ULTRASOUND (SONAR) EXAMINATION?

“Simple and Safe – High frequency sound waves are used to produce real time images for the body.”

Images of the body structures (including organs, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and blood vessels) are obtained through specialised equipment using high frequency sound waves.
The examination is done in real-time, making it possible to evaluate movement.
Doppler is a special ultrasound technique which evaluates blood flow through a blood vessel to diagnose thrombosis, occlusion or narrowing of blood vessels.
Ultrasound does not use ionising radiation and is therefore safe to use in pregnancy.

You should bring a referral note from your doctor requesting the relevant ultrasound procedures based on your clinical history.
You do not need to make an appointment for an ultrasound examination unless the procedure requires special preparation for which you will receive instructions to follow considering the scheduled appointment.
For some procedures you may be expected to fill your bladder.
The account will be submitted to your medical aid. You remain responsible for any shortfall or non-payment by your medical aid.
Private patients are expected to pay for the procedure on the day of the procedure.
If you are referred through your work, you should either produce a Letter of Guarantee or documents for WCA.

You may be asked to change into a procedure gown for the procedure
The sonographer will move the probe over the area under investigation to obtain images in different planes.
Ultrasound gel is used for the probe to move over your skin, leaving your skin wet and sticky. This will be wiped off with paper towel after the procedure.
It is important to keep still once positioned and to listen to any instructions given by the sonographer during the procedure
The procedure may be uncomfortable or painful if you have suffered an injury.
The procedure may take between 15-30 minutes depending on the type of procedure. The results will be ready within 30 minutes of the procedure being completed. Your doctor will discuss the results with you.