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Ultrasound

What is an Ultrasound Exam?

During an ultrasound exam, a trained sonographer applies a device called a transducer, or probe, to the area of the body being examined. The transducer emits sound waves that are inaudible to the human ear. As these sound waves bounce off organs and tissues, they generate echoes, which are sent back to the ultrasound machine to create real-time images on a computer screen. These images provide valuable information about the size, shape, and texture of internal structures.

Ultrasound exams are a key tool in diagnosing medical conditions and guiding treatment decisions. These exams are typically ordered by a doctor, performed by certified sonographers, and interpreted by radiologists who provide detailed reports to guide patient care.

What we offer?

At Durham Radiology Associates we offer a variety of ultrasound services, including general, breast, musculoskeletal (MSK), Vascular, and Obstetrics ultrasounds. professional, high-quality ultrasound imaging services in a comfortable and convenient setting. Our clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure accurate and timely results. Appointment is needed; Your doctor will discuss options with you and recommend the most appropriate procedure for your clinical problem.

What to expect?

  • Referral Required: You will need a referral from your healthcare provider, most ultrasound exams are covered by OHIP. Please bring the Requisition Form and your valid Ontario Health Card for each visit.
  • If you do not have an OHIP health card, you can still receive an ultrasound at Durham Radiology Associates:
    • Private Payment: Ultrasound services can be accessed through private payment (cash-payment). Please contact our clinic for pricing information.
    • Insurance Coverage: If you have private health insurance, we can provide you with the necessary documentation to submit a claim for reimbursement, depending on your insurance plan.
    • Referral Requirement: A referral from a licensed healthcare provider is still required for all Ultrasound exams.

Preparation:

Here are some common ultrasound examinations, and the preparation that may be required. These instructions are IMPORTANT. Please follow them.

  • ABDOMEN
    • Morning Appointments: Nothing to eat or drink after midnight.
    • Afternoon Appointments: Light fat free meal (black coffee or tea, juice, dry toast but NO CREAM OR MILK). Nothing to eat or drink after 9:00 am.
  • PELVIS MALE AND FEMALE
    • Drink 5 large glasses (40oz./1.2 litres) of water 1.5 hours before exam. NO MILK.
      Finish drinking 1 hour before exam. DO NOT EMPTY YOUR BLADDER.
  • ABDOMEN AND PELVIS COMBINED
    • Morning Appointments: Nothing to eat or drink except water after midnight.
    • Afternoon Appointments: Light fat free meal {black coffee or tea, juice, dry toast but NO CREAM OR MILK). Nothing to eat or drink after 9:00 am.
      Drink 5 large glasses (40oz./1.2 litres) of water 1.5 hours before exam. NO MILK.
      Finish drinking 1 hour before exam. DO NOT EMPTY YOUR BLADDER.
  • OBSTETRIC
    • Drink 5 large glasses (40oz./1.2 litres) of water 1.5 hours before exam. NO MILK.
      Finish drinking 1 hour before exam. DO NOT EMPTY YOUR BLADDER.
  • BREAST
    • No preparation is required. May be booked any time of the day.
  • THYROID OR NECK
    • No preparation is required. May be booked any time of the day.
  • SCOROTAL
    • No preparation is required. May be booked any time of the day.
  • MUSCULOSKELETAL (MSK)
    • No preparation is required. May be booked any time of the day.
  • VASCULAR
    • No preparation is required. May be booked any time of the day.
  • OTHER
    • Please contact our clinic.

FOR ALL EXAMS TAKE REGULAR MEDICATIONS WITH SIP OF WATER. PLEASE BRING YOUR VALID HEALTHCARD AND THIS REQUISITION.

  • Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment for registration. Late arrivals may require rebooking. Missed appointments will be subject to a $75 fee. 24-hour cancellation notice is required.
  • Patients arriving late or not properly prepared may have to re-book.

Click here to download the exam preparation form.

What to Wear:

For an ultrasound exam, it’s best to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. A  loose, easy-to-remove top is ideal, especially for abdominal, pelvic, or chest ultrasounds, as it can be lifted or removed easily. Elastic waistband pants or skirts are recommended since you may need to expose your lower abdomen, and these are easy to adjust. Avoid wearing dresses or jumpsuits, which can make it difficult to access certain areas, and keep jewelry minimal as it may need to be removed. Comfortable undergarments are important, as you might need to change into a hospital gown for some types of ultrasounds, though the clinic will often provide a gown if necessary.

During an ultrasound exam, a trained sonographer will apply a gel to the area being examined to ensure clear images, and a small device called a transducer will be gently moved across your skin. You may feel slight pressure, but the procedure is generally painless and non-invasive. Depending on the type of ultrasound, you may be asked to hold your breath or change positions for clearer imaging. The exam typically lasts 20-30 minutes, and once complete, you can resume normal activities immediately. Our team will ensure you are comfortable throughout the process.

  • Results: Your ultrasound images will be reviewed by a radiologist, and the results will be sent to your referring physician.
  • Next Steps: Your doctor will discuss the results with you and recommend any necessary follow-up care.
  • Patient Web Portal Access: Durham Radiology Associates offers access to the Patient Web Portal, providing an immediate way to view and download your diagnostic images. You can preview the images in real-time as soon as they are available after your exam. To gain access to the portal, please contact our clinic staff.

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