Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging is a common diagnostic medical procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce dynamic images (sonograms) of organs, tissues or blood flow inside the body. At London Bridge Hospital, specialist Consultant Radiologists perform a wide variety of scans (including breast and prostate scans) and also undertake interventional procedures using ultrasound imaging.

Ultrasound can be used for biopsy, drainage and other interventional procedures. These procedures are all performed under sterile conditions and the patient will be required to sign a consent form prior to the start of the examination. At London  Bridge Hospital we also have a specialist sonographer who undertakes pelvic and trans-vaginal scans for the gynaecologists during their outpatient clinics. All Ultrasound scans take between 15-30 minutes and we offer a chaperone service to all patients.

Pelvic scans

Performed trans-abdominally with a full bladder or trans-vaginally with a special probe. For gynaecological referrals the trans-vaginal is the preferred approach because it achieves more accurate imaging.

Abdominal scans

Performed trans-abdominally and will usually involve fasting for 6 hours prior to the examination to enable better imaging of the liver and gall bladder.

Renal scans

Performed trans-abdominally with a full bladder.

Breast scans

Performed by specialist Consultant Radiologists who have designated sessions in the department, and who are also involved in our One Stop Breast Clinics.

Prostate scans

Performed trans-rectally.

Carotid & Deep venous/arterial scans

Performed by a Consultant Vascular Radiologist who has a dedicated list once a week at London Bridge Hospital. All scans are performed with Doppler imaging.

Musculo-skeletal scans

Performed by musculo-skeletal Consultant Radiologists who, depending on the result of the scan, may proceed to a steroid injection.