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Find out everything you need to know about the possibilities of ultrasound machines at «HBMedical», as well as about the preparation and features of conducting an ultrasound examination
Equipment capabilities
In the HBMedical clinic, all ultrasound examinations are performed on one of two 2021 Siemens Acuson (Germany) expert-class ultrasound machines with the following parameters:
- All necessary sensors
- Latest software
- Three active ports on the scanner
- Monitor with high resolution
It is important that for patients who have difficulty moving due to injuries or damage, as well as for patients with special needs, the HBMedical clinic provides the possibility of a transfer in a specially equipped medical car or conducting an ultrasound on the way (at home)
Preparation for examination
In most cases, the ultrasound examination procedure at HBMedical does not require special preliminary preparation, so for examinations of the heart, thyroid gland, joints, soft tissues, peripheral lymph nodes, etc., we recommend:
- Make sure that you do not have one general contraindication, which consists in the absence of manifestations on the skin directly above the study area that prevent a tight fit of the sensor: external symptoms of dermatovenereal diseases, significant inflammatory lesions, frostbite, burns, etc.
- Take with you the results of previously completed studies and a referral from a doctor (if any)
- Come to the medical center early (10-15 minutes)
However, there are exceptions to this rule, in particular:
- Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity: a) It is performed on an empty stomach, which means not to consume food and liquid, as well as – not to take medications for 5-6 hours before the start; b) The day before this ultrasound, it is also necessary to exclude from the diet gas-forming products such as sweets, fresh fruits and vegetables, buttery pastries, black bread, milk and especially fresh cabbage; c) Sometimes it is advisable to take a special adsorbent at night (according to the doctor’s dosage)
- Ultrasound of the kidneys and bladder: a) You should come to the examination with a full bladder, having drunk 500 ml about an hour before the start of the procedure. water; b) During the day before the examination, gas-forming products should also be excluded from food (see details in the previous point)
- Ultrasound of the pelvic organs (transabdominal): a) It is carried out on the 5-10th day of the menstrual cycle; b) Before the procedure, it is necessary to fill the bladder, and the day before it – to exclude gas-forming products from the diet (see details in the previous points)
- Pelvic ultrasound (transvaginal) is not recommended for girls who do not have sex, as well as after certain gynecological operations
- Ultrasound of mammary glands in women, for maximum informativeness, should be performed on day 5-10 of the menstrual cycle
- Ultrasonography of the prostate gland (transrectal) in men is not recommended in the period after rectal surgery and other conditions associated with the introduction of a probe into the rectum
- Ultrasonography of the prostate gland in men (prostate) transabdominally (through the stomach), it is not recommended to be carried out in such a syndrome as urinary incontinence, as well as in the period after bladder surgery
- In the case of prescribing an ultrasound of hormone-dependent organs in women (breast glands, uterus, ovaries), the examination should be carried out on a day of the menstrual cycle previously selected by the doctor
How is the procedure performed?
The ultrasound examination procedure, regardless of the area, is performed painlessly and, as a rule, for this, patients at HBMedical need only take a horizontal position on a comfortable medical couch in accordance with the instructions of the doctor or nurse of one of the two ultrasound offices.
After completing the procedure:
- the ultrasound doctor will draw up the appropriate conclusion and it will be transferred to you almost instantly
- it is also possible to order copying of ultrasound results to electronic drives
- You can make an appointment for a free consultation with a therapist
Ultrasound Diagnostics: What the Examination Shows, How the Procedure Is Performed and How to Prepare
Ultrasound diagnostics — is one of the most common, safe, and accessible methods of medical examination. Ultrasound examination helps the doctor assess the condition of internal organs, blood vessels, soft tissues, joints, and other body structures in real time.
Ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation, so this method is widely used for adults, children, and pregnant women. The examination is painless, usually does not require complex preparation, and allows doctors to quickly obtain diagnostic information.
In this article, we will explain what ultrasound is, which organs can be examined using ultrasound, how the procedure is performed, and how to prepare properly for different types of ultrasound diagnostics.
What Is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound, or ultrasound diagnostics, — is an examination method that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal organs and tissues.
During the procedure, the doctor uses a special transducer. It emits ultrasound waves that pass through tissues, reflect from them, and return back. The device processes these signals and creates an image on the screen.
This allows the doctor to assess:
- organ size;
- tissue structure;
- the presence of inflammation;
- cysts, nodules, tumors;
- the condition of blood vessels and blood flow;
- the presence of fluid or pathological changes.
What Does Ultrasound Show?
Ultrasound examination is used in many areas of medicine. With ultrasound, doctors can examine different organs and body systems.
Abdominal Ultrasound
It allows doctors to assess the condition of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, and other organs. This examination is often prescribed for abdominal pain, nausea, digestive disorders, suspected inflammatory processes, or gallstones.
Ultrasound of the Urinary and Reproductive System
It is used to assess the condition of the kidneys, bladder, prostate gland in men, uterus and ovaries in women. Ultrasound helps detect inflammatory changes, cysts, tumors, stones, and other disorders.
Gynecological Ultrasound
Gynecological ultrasound allows doctors to assess the condition of the uterus, ovaries, endometrium, and other pelvic structures. The examination may be performed transabdominally or transvaginally depending on the indications.
Thyroid Ultrasound
It helps assess the size and structure of the thyroid gland, as well as the presence of nodules, cysts, or other changes. It is often prescribed for hormonal disorders, discomfort in the neck area, or gland enlargement.
Ultrasound of the Heart and Blood Vessels
Heart ultrasound, or echocardiography, allows doctors to assess heart function, valve condition, wall thickness, contractile function, and other important parameters. Doppler ultrasound is used to assess blood flow in vessels.
Ultrasound of Joints and Soft Tissues
This examination helps detect inflammation, fluid accumulation, traumatic injuries, and changes in ligaments, tendons, or muscles.
Ultrasound During Pregnancy
Ultrasound examination during pregnancy is used to monitor fetal development, assess the condition of the placenta, amniotic fluid, and other important indicators.
Types of Ultrasound
Different types of ultrasound diagnostics may be used depending on the purpose of the examination.
- Standard ultrasound — allows doctors to assess the structure and condition of organs in a two-dimensional format.
- Doppler ultrasound — is used to study blood flow in arteries and veins.
- 3D ultrasound — creates a three-dimensional image and is often used during pregnancy.
- 4D ultrasound — allows doctors to see a three-dimensional image in motion in real time.
When Is Ultrasound Prescribed?
A doctor may recommend an ultrasound examination for various symptoms or for preventive health monitoring.
The most common indications for ultrasound include:
- abdominal or lower back pain;
- digestive disorders;
- nausea, bloating, a feeling of heaviness;
- suspected gallstones or kidney stones;
- urination disorders;
- changes in the menstrual cycle;
- suspected cysts or nodules;
- pregnancy monitoring;
- preventive examination.
How Is Ultrasound Performed?
The ultrasound procedure is usually fast and comfortable for the patient. The patient lies down on an examination couch, and the doctor applies a special gel to the skin to improve contact between the transducer and the body.
After that, the doctor moves the transducer over the examination area and assesses the image on the monitor. If necessary, the patient may be asked to change body position or hold their breath for a few seconds.
Most ultrasound examinations last about 15–30 minutes. After the procedure, the patient can immediately return to their usual activities.
How to Prepare for Ultrasound
Preparation for ultrasound depends on which area needs to be examined. Most examinations do not require special preparation, but some types of ultrasound require certain recommendations.
Preparation for Abdominal Ultrasound
Before abdominal ultrasound, patients are often advised to undergo the examination on an empty stomach. A few days before the procedure, it is advisable to limit foods that may cause gas formation.
Such foods include:
- legumes;
- cabbage;
- fresh vegetables and fruits in large amounts;
- carbonated drinks;
- sweets;
- dairy products in case of individual intolerance.
Preparation for Bladder Ultrasound
For a high-quality bladder examination, it should be full. Usually, patients are advised to drink water a certain time before the procedure and not empty the bladder before the examination.
Preparation for Gynecological Ultrasound
Preparation depends on the type of examination. For transabdominal ultrasound, a full bladder may be required, while for transvaginal ultrasound, the bladder should be empty.
Some gynecological ultrasound examinations may also be scheduled on specific days of the menstrual cycle.
Preparation for Thyroid, Joint, and Soft Tissue Ultrasound
These examinations usually do not require special preparation. It is enough to arrive at the scheduled time and bring the results of previous examinations, if available.
Are There Any Contraindications to Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is considered a safe diagnostic method and has no strict contraindications. The examination can be performed for children, pregnant women, and patients of different ages.
Sometimes the informativeness of the examination may be limited due to excessive gas formation, body structure features, postoperative scars, or insufficient preparation.
Advantages of Ultrasound Diagnostics
- Safety — the method does not use ionizing radiation.
- Painlessness — the procedure does not cause pain and does not require recovery.
- Speed — most examinations take up to 30 minutes.
- Informativeness — the doctor sees organs and tissues in real time.
- Accessibility — ultrasound is widely used in scheduled and preventive diagnostics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ultrasound
Is ultrasound painful?
No, ultrasound is a painless procedure. The patient may only feel slight pressure from the transducer on the skin.
How long does ultrasound take?
On average, the examination takes 15–30 minutes depending on the type of study.
Can ultrasound be performed for children?
Yes, ultrasound can be performed for children as prescribed by a doctor. The method does not use X-ray radiation.
Can ultrasound be performed during pregnancy?
Yes, ultrasound is widely used to monitor the course of pregnancy and fetal development.
Do I need to prepare for ultrasound?
It depends on the type of examination. For example, abdominal ultrasound is often performed on an empty stomach, while bladder ultrasound may require a full bladder.
Conclusion
Ultrasound diagnostics — is a safe, accessible, and informative examination method that helps detect many diseases in time and monitor health status.
To obtain the most accurate result, it is important to follow preparation recommendations and inform the doctor about previous examinations or current complaints.
Ultrasound in Kyiv can be performed at the HBMedical clinic near Shuliavska metro station. You can find out the current price and book an examination through the service page or the clinic’s contact center.
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