Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Introduction
We have given you this information because you have an appointment for an ultrasound (US) scan. Please make sure you read this information and follow the instructions carefully before your procedure. If you have any further questions, please speak to a member of your healthcare team who will be able to advise you.
An ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the area of examination. A small handheld probe is placed onto your skin and moved over the part of the body being examined. Water-based gel is put onto your skin to allow the probe to move smoothly and excludes air between the probe and skin. This is a widely used diagnostic test to examine the organs and soft tissues of the body. The ultrasound is carried out by either a sonographer or clinician, both are trained professionals in this type of scan.
On the day of procedure
Eating – You can eat as normal
Drinking – We ask you to come with a reasonably full bladder in order for the scan to be successful, but you should not be uncomfortable.
On arrival
Please arrive 10 minutes before your scan time. Please allow time for parking.
If you arrive after your appointment time you may have to be rebooked.
On arrival in the department, you should check in at the reception desk. Bring this letter with you and be prepared to confirm your details with the receptionist.
You are welcome to bring your partner, family member or friend with you but only one adult may attend the scan with you. No children are allowed into the scanning room or ultrasound department. We understand this may cause some inconvenience but please ensure you make appropriate arrangements as no exceptions will be made on the day and they cannot be left unsupervised or with the reception staff.
Please appreciate that whilst this is an extremely exciting and sometimes anxious time for you the sonographer is performing a skilled clinical examination and needs to concentrate.
No video recording or photography is permitted in the department.
The procedure
You will be asked to lie on the examination couch and adjust your clothes to uncover the area for examination. You will have water based gel applied to the skin. The sonographer will slowly move the probe over the area while viewing the images produced on the monitor.
The lights in the room will be dimmed so that the pictures on the screen can be seen more clearly and records of selected images will be made so that they can be viewed later.
Sometimes an additional type of ultrasound scan is required called a transvaginal or an internal, ultrasound scan to examine the pelvic organs more clearly. We want to involve you in decisions about your care and treatment and an internal examination will only be performed if you consent to it. The sonographer will ask you if you are happy for the procedure to go ahead - this is called verbal consent. If you do not wish to have the scan or are undecided, please tell the sonographer. It is your decision, and you can change your mind at any time.
The internal scan involves inserting a small probe into the vagina which is then gently moved to see the pelvic organs. If you do feel uncomfortable, please inform the sonographer, so that suitable adjustments can be made.
Please note that the examination could be performed by a sonographer of any gender.
A chaperone is always available.
How long will it take?
On average scans can take between 5 -15 minutes. Occasionally, a second opinion is
required or if the baby is in a position where it cannot be seen clearly you may be asked to go for a short walk and come back later which can increase the exam time. You should allow at least one hour in the ultrasound department. Occasionally, you may be asked to return on another day. We try to avoid delays, however, please allow extra time in case of delays on the day of your appointment.
After the examination
You will be free to resume your normal daily activities
The results
The sonographer will discuss the results with you at the time of the scan. They will also advise you if additional tests or appointments may be required.
Are there any risks?
Ultrasound is a very safe procedure for all patients undergoing a diagnostic test. This type of scan is not associated with or known to have any side effect
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Radiology service.
About this information
Service:
Radiology
Reference:
PILS-US.4
Approval date:
9 November 2023
Review date:
22 October 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.