Ultrasound

An ultrasound exam uses high-frequency sound waves to look at internal organs. As the sound waves are bounced off the body, they produce images that identify the size, location and shape of internal structures.

An ultrasound is done to examine the thyroid gland or the abdominal and pelvic regions. It can detect cysts and masses. In obstetrics, ultrasounds assess the growth and well-being of the foetus. A nuchal translucency ultrasound is part of the Integrated Prenatal Screening (IPS) test to assess a baby’s risk of having Down Syndrome.

The HGH Medical Imaging Department provides specialized ultrasound exams such as carotid Doppler, small part, thyroid, breast, shoulder and echocardiogram.

How to access our services?

You must have a referral from your doctor or another healthcare professional to get an appointment for this test.

About The Program

Before your appointment

  1. Your family doctor will fax us a request – please make sure that your contact information is accurate so we may call you.
  2. We will call you to schedule an appointment. It could take up to a few months between your doctor’s referral and your appointment for the ultrasound at HGH Diagnostic Imaging.
  3. You will receive a reminder a few days before your appointment.
  4. Please read and follow preparation instructions for your type of ultrasound.

What to bring

  • Valid Health card
  • List of all your medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements and herbal medicines.

When you arrive

  • Please register at one the self-service registration kiosks at the Main Entrance at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
  • After registration, report directly to the Medical Imaging Reception in Block D.
  • Depending on the type of examination, you may need to remove your clothes and wear a hospital gown.

Preparation and procedure

Abdominal ultrasound

  • Do not eat or drink for 8 hours prior to the exam.
    • If you’re having a pelvic ultrasound at the same time: drink 4 large glasses of water (1 litre) 60 minutes prior to the exam, but do not eat.
  • If your exam is scheduled after 1:00 p.m., you may have a light breakfast (toast and beverage) at 8:00 a.m.
  • Take your regular medication.
  • During the examination, you lie on your back on a table. The technologist applies gel on your abdomen and moves a probe around the area to be examined. The probe movements produce images on a screen.
  • The examination is not painful and may take up to 30 minutes.

Pelvic, obstetrical or nuchal translucency ultrasounds

  • If you are less than 16 weeks pregnant: Drink 3 large glasses (700 ml) of liquid – water, juice or coffee. Finish drinking 90 minutes before your scheduled appointment and do not urinate before the exam.
  • If you are 16 weeks or more pregnant: Drink 2 large glasses of water 60 minutes before the exam.
  • You may eat and take your regular medication.
  • During the examination, you lie on your back on a table. The technologist applies gel on your pelvis and moves a probe around the area to be examined. The probe movements produce images on a screen.
  • The examination is not painful and may take up to 60 minutes.

Test results

  • Radiology technologists are not able to give you the results of your exam. Results will be sent to your physician.
  • You must book an appointment with your family doctor or healthcare professional who sent us the referral to discuss your test results.