Appointments – RVI: (0191) 282 4330 : Freeman Hospital: (0191) 223 1012
What is an ultrasound scan?
An ultrasound scan, sometimes called a sonogram, is a procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of part of the inside of the body.
Ultrasound scans are used to monitor unborn babies, diagnose conditions, or guide a surgeon during certain procedures.
How ultrasound scans work
A small device called an ultrasound probe is used, which gives off high-frequency sound waves.
You can’t hear these sound waves, but when they bounce off different parts of the body, they create “echoes” that are picked up by the probe and turned into a moving image. This image is displayed on a monitor while the scan is carried out.
It may be necessary for you to lie in different positions and you may be asked to hold your breath while pictures are taken.
The person performing the scan will tell you what to do and will help you if you have any difficulties.
Your ultrasound scan
Ultrasound scans are carried out slightly different depending upon the condition you are being scanned for.
You can find out more about each ultrasound scan here:
- ultrasound scans
- female pelvis
- musculoskeletal
- guided biopsy
- guided biopsy – musculoskeletal
- biopsy – one stop sarcoma clinic
- guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) or biopsy
- guided injection of local anaesthetic or steroid medication
- contrast enhanced scan
- gallbladder function test
