Ultrasound and Interventional Procedures

We offer Ultrasound scans from a range of locations to both NHS and Private Patients.

These scans use high frequency sound waves to create an image and are used to diagnose a range of conditions.

Our team are experts in their field, with all of our scans being reported by a team of UK-based Sonographers and Radiologists.

We are accredited by all major insurers and offer a fast turnaround time to Private Patients.

These services are available from a range of locations to self-funding, privately insured and NHS patients.

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What is an Ultrasound Scan?

During a scan, a small hand-held sensor that produces sound waves is pressed against the skin. This sensor then detects any echoes that are reflected back off of the internal organs. The sensor can be moved over the skin to view from different angles. The images are then displayed on a screen and recorded.

Ultrasound images complement other forms of scans and are widely used for many different parts of the body. They can also be used to study blood flow and to detect any narrowing or blockage of blood vessels, for example, in the neck.

We also offer a range of ultrasound guided procedures including musculoskeletal injections and biopsy.

Learn more about Ultrasound Scans

Your Ultrasound Scan

An ultrasound scan is a picture of part of the inside of the body. It uses sound waves of a frequency above the audible range of the human ear.

What is an ultrasound scan?

A small hand-held sensor pressed carefully against the skin surface generates sound waves and detects any echoes reflected back off the surfaces and tissue boundaries of internal organs. The sensor can be moved over the skin to view the organ from different angles. The images are displayed on a screen and recorded for subsequent study.

Ultrasound is also used for intimate examinations; for example, of the prostate gland in men or the womb or ovaries in women. For some of these examinations, it may be necessary to place an ultrasound probe in the vagina or the rectum to look at internal structures. If you are having an intimate examination the sonographer will describe the procedure to you, and your consent will be required.

Who will be doing the ultrasound?

Sonographers (radiographers) or radiologists (doctors) who have specialized training in the technique of ultrasound.

They carry out a great number of these examinations and will provide a descriptive report of their findings to your doctor.

Where will the procedure take place?

Generally in the radiology department.

Do I need to make any special preparations in advance?

Some preparation may be required. If your pelvis, kidney or bladder are to be scanned, you may be required to ensure that your bladder is full before the examination can begin. For some examinations such as the gall bladder and pancreas, you may be required to fast for a specified number of hours. If so, this will be explained in the accompanying appointment letter. You should tell the radiology department in advance if you have had a similar ultrasound recently.

If you are diabetic please bring some food and your medication with you on the day of the scan.

Can I bring a relative/friend?

Yes. However, it may not be suitable for a friend to remain in the scanning room if you undergo an intimate examination.

When you arrive

Please report to the reception desk in the radiology department.

Upon collection

The sonographer will explain the procedure for your examination and, if you have to undress for the procedure, may show you to a private cubicle where you will undress.

Who will I see?

You will be seen by a radiologist or a sonographer depending upon the type of investigation you are having.

What happens during the scan?

You will be taken into a room where you will be asked to lie down on a couch, the room may be dimmed so that the images on the screen can be seen more clearly. A gel will be applied to your skin over the area to be scanned, for example, the abdomen. The gel allows the sensor to slide easily over the skin and helps to produce clearer images.

You may be asked to take deep breaths and to hold your breath for a few moments. For a scan of the bladder, the bladder may occasionally not be full enough for the examination and you may be asked to drink more fluid.

The radiologist/sonographer will slowly move the sensor over your skin while viewing the images on the screen. Records of selected images will be made so that they can be viewed later. Upon completion, the gel will be wiped off and you will be free to get dressed.

Will it be uncomfortable?

Ultrasound itself does not produce discomfort and apart from the sensor on your skin you will not feel anything. If a full bladder is required there may be some associated discomfort. If pressure has to be applied to the skin surface over an inflamed organ, e.g. the gallbladder, to check what is causing the pain, this may increase the amount of pain coming from that organ temporarily.

How long will it take?

The process of carrying out a scan usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Your total time in the department is likely to be about 30–40 minutes.

Are there any risks?

No, there are no known risks and it is considered to be very safe.

Can I eat and drink afterwards?

Yes.

When will I get the results?

The scan will be examined after your visit and a written report on the findings sent to your referring doctor.

Finally…

We hope your questions have been answered by this leaflet, but remember that this is only a starting point for discussion about your examination.

Make sure you are satisfied that you have received enough information about the procedure, before you consent to the examination.

Other sources of Information

Royal College of Radiologists
www.rcr.ac.uk/public-and-media

NHS website
For health advice and information, visit the NHS website:
www.nhs.uk

For information from the NHS about Ultrasound scans please click the button below:

NHS Information about your Ultrasound scan

Further information:

This leaflet tells you about having an Ultrasound scan.

Information leaflet about your Ultrasound scan

Making an Appointment

Scans for NHS Patients

If you are an NHS Patient and would like to have a scan with us you will need to request a referral to us from your GP.

Booking a Private Scan

We offer fast access, expert led MRI services to both self pay and privately insured patients.

Typically a private patient can be seen within 1 – 2 days with their images reported and sent back to the referrer 1 – 2 days after the scan has taken place.

If you would like to make an appointment to see one of our specialists you can do so by completing our appointment request form or by calling us on 0203 519 8998 to book a scan in London, 0161 738 1740 to book a scan in South Manchester, 01932 504999 to book for Surrey or 01293 534 043 for Sussex.

To have a scan with us you will need a written referral from a healthcare professional. This can be your Consultant, GP, Osteopath or Physiotherapist. If you do not have a referral please call our team and they will be happy to discuss your options.

Request a private appointment