An ultrasound is a safe and painless examination that uses soundwaves to show images of the inside of the body. It is performed by a sonographer. There is no radiation involved for an ultrasound.
At St Vincent’s, we use ultrasound to image a range of body regions including the abdomen, pelvis (for both males and females), thyroid and neck, blood vessels, and musculoskeletal soft tissues. We also perform a variety of interventional procedures including steroid procedures, drainages, and biopsies.
An experienced sonographer will perform your examination and will instruct you throughout the process. Most scans are performed with the patient laying on a bed. A water-based gel is applied to the area being scanned and a hand-held scanner, called an ultrasound transducer, will be used to undertake the imaging.
Ultrasound scans typically take 20-60 minutes. There are no after-effects and you can resume your normal activities afterwards.
You may ask the sonographer performing the ultrasound questions during the examination and they can assist you where possible. The results of the ultrasound will be reported by a radiologist and sent electronically to your referring doctor.
You can access your scanned images through an online account using My Vue PACS. Your account will enable you to view any scans performed at SVHS within the past 12 months. Our staff are available to assist you with setting up your account in person or via email by filling out this form [link to consent form]. Please note that scan reports can only be shared with the requesting doctor, we can also share images and reports with a relevant medical practitioner with your consent.
Bulk billing is available where Medicare Rebate criteria is met. Out-of-pocket charges apply for certain investigations and procedures
