PRP's Ultrasound Service Information

Reflected sound waves are used to image the soft tissues of your body. Ultrasound can be used to image the abdomen, pelvis (including obstetrics and gynaecology), blood vessels and musculoskeletal soft tissues. Ultrasound is an extremely safe and painless procedure.

Preparation

PREPARATION | ABDOMEN ULTRASOUND

Please bring your referral, Medicare and Pensioner Health Care Cards with any previous imaging relating to the region being scanned.

Instructions on how to prepare for the test will be provided when you arrange the appointment. In general, there is a period of fasting for about 6 hours. Medications may be taken with a sip of water.

PREPARATION | RENAL/PELVIC ULTRASOUND

Please bring your referral, Medicare and Pension Health Care Cards with any previous imaging relating to the region being scanned.

Instructions on how to prepare for the test will be provided when you arrange the appointment. In general, you will be asked to empty your bladder, drink and then hold 1-2 hours prior to the test.

What happens during the procedure

You may be asked to change into a gown. A clear jelly is applied to the skin and a small plastic probe is moved over the skin above the area being examined. Multiple images are taken throughout the exam.

The sonographer will be with you throughout the scan and will usually ask questions about your medical history and the reason for the examination so that the optimal examination for your problem will be done.

To get the best images can be very challenging and requires considerable time and concentration by the sonographer. With consent, an internal examination may be performed during a female pelvic ultrasound.

The radiologist may need to see you to get more information, or to scan to check some findings.

How long does it take?

An ultrasound takes approx 30-60 minutes depending on the complexity.

After your examination

There are no restrictions after having an ultrasound.

Your images and report

After your examination, the most pertinent images from your study will be available on the myPRP patient portal. A report, along with the images will be sent directly to your referring doctor. PRP will store digital copies of all studies on our secure database for comparison with any future examinations.

It is important that you return to your doctor with your examination results. Whether they are normal or abnormal, your doctor needs to know promptly so that a management plan can be formulated.