Diagnostic Ultrasound

Diagnostic ultrasound is a safe, painless examination with no known side effects. Ultrasound examinations use high frequency sound waves which pass through and bounce back from internal organs to form pictures.

A transducer (hand held scanning probe) which contains a sound producing crystal is used for all ultrasound examinations. Water-based gel is applied directly to the skin or probe to allow for good transmission of sound waves through the body.

In most cases, you are required to remain still on a stretcher and momentarily hold your breath if requested to do so. On the average, a complete ultrasound examination would take about 30 - 45 minutes, depending on the type of study.

For some ultrasound examinations (like ultrasound of the abdomen) it is very important that you go without food or drink for 12 hours before the examination. If you are not sure how to prepare for your ultrasound examination, please call the staff in the Ultrasound Department at 1-780-432-8752. You may also call the Telephone Triage nurse toll-free at 1-877-707-4848.