Sonography

Sonography, commonly called ultrasound, uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of structures inside the body. Doctors may recommend it to assess organs, soft tissues, blood flow or a pregnancy, depending on the type of scan required.

Ultrasound does not use ionising radiation. The preparation, duration and technique depend on the body part being examined and the clinical reason for the scan.

Depending on the examination, you may be asked to lie on a scanning bed. The sonographer or doctor applies a water-based gel to the skin and moves a handheld probe over the area being examined. Some specialised scans use a different technique, which the team will explain beforehand.

The scan may involve gentle pressure with the probe. The process and duration vary depending on the examination and the images needed.