Preparations & Examination Times

Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging

How long does the ultrasound take?

Most ultrasound examinations take about 20-30 minutes to perform. However, some vascular examinations & Echocardiography can take considerably longer than this – up to 60 minutes.



Preparation

This will depend on the ultrasound procedure being performed.

Ultrasound Abdomen & Elastography: Prior to this examination you need to fast for 8 hours. You may drink clear fluids.

Ultrasound Breast, Musculoskeletal, Testes & Thyroid: No preparation required.

Echocardiography: No preparation required.

Ultrasound Pregnancy: No preparation required.

Ultrasound Pelvis - Trans-vaginal: No preparation required.

Ultrasound Pelvis - Trans-abdominal: A full bladder is required for this examination. Drink 500mls of clear fluid 1 hour before your appointment. Do not void until examination is over.

Ultrasound Carotid, DVT Study, Lower and Upper limb Arteries: No preparation required.

Ultrasound Abdominal Doppler & Renal Arteries: Prior to this examination you need to fast for 8 hours. You may drink clear fluids.

Renal: A full bladder is required for this examination. Drink 500mls of clear fluid 1 hour before your appointment. Do not void until examination is over.

Paediatrics: Preparations vary depending on the type of ultrasound being performed and the age of the child. Please contact our practice for guidance with regards to paediatric ultrasound preparations.