Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging Medical Imaging Department
Whitsunday Health Service
30 Taylor Street, Proserpine QLD 4800

Patient Resources

Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging

First Trimester Screening

This test is performed during an ultrasound examination between 11 and 13 wks 6 days of pregnancy. It is a measurement of a small fold of skin at the back of the baby’s neck (nuchal translucency). It detects approximately 80% of Down’s Syndrome. When this measurement is used in conjunction with some blood tests (free beta hCG and PAPP-A the sensitivity is increased to 90%).

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Second Trimester (18- 20 wks) Ultrasound

There are many structures that need careful examination during the scan. Measurements of the baby’s head, abdomen and limbs are taken to check its size. The doctor will then look at the major structures in the baby including the brain, heart, spine, kidneys and bladder.

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Third Trimester

Not all pregnant women need to have an ultrasound in the 3rd Trimester. Your doctor may request an ultrasound for many reasons including assessment of baby’s growth and well being, to review the placenta or fetal position or to review a previously seen fetal abnormality.

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General Ultrasound

A layer of gel is applied over the area to be examined and a transducer is placed on your skin. The transducer will be moved back and forth over the skin and images obtained. The procedure is usually carried out lying down, however you may be asked to move in to different positions or asked to hold your breath.

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Cortisone Injection

Cortisone is commonly used in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders to suppress inflammation and/or reduce tissue swelling. Injections are performed under imaging guidance using ultrasound. This allows placement of a small dose of steroid into the desired location.

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Information for Children having an Ultrasound

Most children accept the examination if they are prepared and know what to expect. Children often feel more at ease if they are able to bring something familiar with them such as a favourite toy or blanket. You may also like to bring a treat along for your child to enjoy after the procedure.

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Elastography

Thanks to recent advances in Ultrasound we can now help diagnose fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disorders including chronic hepatitis and fatty liver disease. Elastography is easily combined with a routine abdominal ultrasound.

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Breast Fine Needle Aspiration/Biopsy

Fine needle aspiration/biopsy will be performed under ultrasound guidance. This allows us to target the region in question with great accuracy. A small needle will be introduced into the area in question and some cells from this area will be drawn into the tip of the needle using a syringe. Slides are then prepared and sent to a pathologist for further investigation.

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Transvaginal Ultrasound (pelvic)

Examination of the female pelvis can be performed via vaginal ultrasound or trans-abdominally (with the transducer being placed on the stomach). However, as the ovaries and uterus lie deep beneath the abdominal surface it can be difficult to obtain clear images trans-abdominally and in most instances trans-vaginal ultrasound will be offered in preference. However all patients will be asked which method of ultrasound they wish to have performed.

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Echocardiography

An echocardiogram (Echo) is a safe non-invasive procedure used to examine your heart. The information obtained through Echocardiography examinations is extremely helpful in diagnosing a variety of conditions related to cardiovascular disease.

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Healthcare Associated Infections

Infection control is the responsibility of all health care workers within our practice. All new staff are made aware of policy and procedures in place regarding infection control and are expected to attend regular infection control education updates. Reusable instruments and equipment are cleaned and sterilised according to Australian Standards and compliance with standards is monitored. We have a single use policy, this ensures that 'single use' equipment is not re-processed/re-used. Hand hygiene is considered the most important measure in preventing the spread of infection.

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