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Description of Ultrasounds

Ultrasound (sonography) is one of the most widely used medical imaging tools due to its excellent safety profile, real-time capability, and broad diagnostic range. Using high-frequency sound waves, ultrasound produces detailed images of soft tissues and internal structures—without radiation exposure. This makes it ideal for patients of all ages, including pregnant women and children.

Ultrasounds are commonly performed for:

  • Abdominal pain or digestive symptoms

  • Gallbladder, kidney, liver, or spleen assessment

  • Thyroid and neck lumps

  • Blood flow studies (vascular ultrasound)

  • Pregnancy and fertility assessment

  • Pelvic and women’s imaging

  • Musculoskeletal injuries

  • Paediatric conditions

  • Testicular and scrotal issues

  • Soft tissue lumps

Because ultrasound shows movement in real time, it can assess blood flow using Doppler imaging and guide certain injections or procedures when needed.

At Advicon Imaging, all ultrasound examinations are performed by experienced sonographers using high-resolution equipment for accurate and reliable results. Our radiologists provide detailed reports, and eligible studies are bulk-billed under Medicare.

Utrasound preparation

Clear and correct preparation helps ensure that your ultrasound scan is accurate and provides the best possible diagnostic information. Different ultrasound studies require different preparation instructions. Please review the guidelines below or follow the instructions provided at the time of your booking.

All Medicare‑eligible ultrasound studies are fully bulk‑billed at Advicon Imaging.

General Preparation Notes
  • Take regular medications unless instructed otherwise.
  • Inform us if you are pregnant.
  • If you have diabetes, please discuss fasting requirements with our team.
  • Arrive 5 minutes early to allow for check‑in.

If you are unsure about your preparation, our reception team will be happy to clarify instructions.

Advicon Imaging – Quality care, clear results, fully bulk‑billed ultrasound (where eligible).

Abdomen Ultrasound

Preparation:

  • Fast for 6 hours before the scan.
  • No food, milk, or chewing gum.
  • You may sip small amounts of water if needed.

Purpose:

  • Fasting reduces bowel gas and improves visualisation of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and abdominal organs.
Pelvis Ultrasound (Female and Male)

Preparation:

  • Arrive with a full bladder.
  • Drink 1 litre of water 1 hour before the appointment.
  • Do not empty your bladder until after the scan.

Purpose:

  • A full bladder helps push the bowel aside for clearer pelvic imaging.
Renal / Kidney Ultrasound

Preparation:

  • Drink water to fill your bladder.
  • Avoid urinating for 1 hour before your scan.
  • No fasting required unless combined with abdominal study.

Purpose:

  • A full bladder allows assessment of bladder function and urinary outflow.
Pregnancy Ultrasound

Early Pregnancy (Dating / Viability):

  • Full bladder required – drink 1 litre of water 1 hour before.

Second & Third Trimester:

  • No bladder preparation required.
  • Wear loose clothing for easy access to your abdomen.

Morphology Scan (18–20 weeks):

  • No special preparation required.
Transvaginal Pelvic Ultrasound

Preparation:

  • Empty your bladder before the scan.

Notes:

  • This scan may be offered for higher‑detail imaging of the uterus and ovaries; it is optional and always performed with patient consent.
Thyroid / Neck Ultrasound

Preparation:

  • No preparation required.
  • Wear a top that allows access to the neck area.
Breast Ultrasound

Preparation:

  • No preparation required.
  • Avoid applying creams or powders to the chest on the day of the scan.
Testicular / Scrotal Ultrasound

Preparation:

  • No preparation required.
  • Wear comfortable clothing.
Musculoskeletal (MSK) Ultrasound

Preparation:

  • No specific preparation required.
  • Wear clothing that allows easy access to the area being scanned.
Paediatric Ultrasound

Preparation varies depending on the scan:

  • Abdomen: infants may need a shorter fasting period (our team will advise).
  • Renal/Pelvis: older children may need a full bladder.
  • Hips/Soft Tissue/Neck: no preparation required.

Parents and carers may stay with the child at all times.

Vascular Ultrasound (Doppler Studies)

Carotid Doppler:

  • No preparation required.

Leg Arteries or Veins:

  • No preparation required.
  • Wear loose trousers or shorts if possible.

Aortic Aneurysm Screening:

  • Fast for 6 hours prior.

Purpose:

  • Fasting reduces bowel gas to improve view of the abdominal aorta.

Frequently asked questions about Ultrasounds

What is an ultrasound?

Ultrasound uses harmless sound waves to create pictures of the inside of your body. It is completely safe and does not involve radiation.

Why has my doctor sent me for this test?

Ultrasound helps investigate pain, swelling, lumps, organ function, blood flow, pregnancy-related concerns, or general health issues.

Are ultrasounds safe?

Yes — ultrasound is one of the safest imaging techniques available and is suitable for all ages.

Do I need preparation?

Preparation depends on the type of scan:

  • Abdomen: fasting 6 hours
  • Pelvis: drink 1 litre of water to fill bladder
  • Renal: drink water, avoid urinating
  • Pregnancy: arrive with a comfortably full bladder
  • Other studies: usually no preparation

We will confirm any specific instructions when booking.

Does it hurt?

No. Ultrasound is painless, though mild pressure may be applied.

How long does it take?

Most scans take 15–30 minutes.

When will results be available?

Reports are usually sent to your doctor within 24–48 hours.

Is ultrasound bulk-billed?

Yes. All Medicare-eligible ultrasound examinations are fully bulk-billed at Advicon Imaging.

Book an appointment with Advicon Imaging

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Should you have any questions or require any assistance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team is committed to supporting you and your patients every step of the way.