Ultrasound was traditionally used in obstetrics and also to evaluate the abdominal and pelvic structures.  New equipment with higher frequency probes as well as Doppler facilities has greatly expanded the role of ultrasound in clinical practice.  

Investigation of abdominal pain, a palpable mass, gallbladder and kidney stones as well as a multitude of other conditions is easily done with ultrasound.  It is a fast, cost-effective examination without any radiation.

Nowadays examination of the musculo-skeletal system and blood vessels has become a part of the daily routine.

Other applications include soft tissue evaluation of the breasts, neck, thyroid and scrotum.  Interventional procedures under ultrasound guidance is now almost a routine procedure

Why Ultrasound 

It is :

Mostly painless and non-invasive

Easy to use

Less Expensive

Does not use ionizing radiation

Gives a clear picture of the soft tissue not seen on x-rays

Has many applications

Remember, ultrasound is not the primary investigation for the stomach and bowel.

Gross obesity may interfere with the technical quality of the study

No harmful effects on humans are known.

SCP has a spectrum of state-of-the-art ultrasound machines manufactured by Toshiba and Siemens.  All ultrasound machines have full Doppler facilities enabling us to provide the full complement of examinations as requested by the referring doctor.  We employ specialised training and fully registered ultrasound technologists to perform these studies and do the necessary routine documentation.  Thereafter a radiologist will in most cases supplement this by doing a scan directed at the specific medical problem.

Preparation depends on the type of ultrasound you are doing:  

Why a full bladder for pelvic ultrasound?

Soundwaves travel through liquids and thus the full bladder, enabling visualisation of the uterus and ovaries behind the bladder.  

Why can't I eat before abdominal ultrasound?

Eating introduces air into the stomach and bowel, complicating visualisation of the target organs.  

Allow time to check in at the SCP reception desk before your study. You may be asked to remove your watch, jewelry, and clothing from the part of your body to be studied. In most cases, you will be asked to put on a gown.

If you did not follow the instructions as prescribed.
Medical conditions, e.g. allergies, diabetes, heart conditions and glaucoma.
Previous relevant surgical procedures

You will be lying face-up on an examination table for most examinations.  For some other studies, such as a shoulder study, you may be required to sit up.

A clear gel is supplied to the area to secure contact and eliminate air between the skin and transducer.

The examination would be performed by either a trained ultra-sonographer or the radiologist, and very often by both.

Adhere to preparation procedures, especially not eating or drinking before an abdominal study and arriving with a full bladder for a study of the pelvis or kidneys.
Follow instructions regarding holding your breath, for intermittened periods of time, during upper abdominal studies (gallbladder. Liver, spleen, pancreas and kidneys)

After the procedure, you will have to wait briefly while images are reviewed. You can return to your normal routine right away, unless you’re advised not to. In most cases, the results are available for your doctor within 30 minutes to one hour. Your doctor will let you know when the results are ready.

Follow preparation instructions and cooperate to the best of your ability during the study.