Private ultrasound scan in London

Ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses high frequency sound waves and a computer to see images of various organs, vessels and tissues within the body. An ultrasound machine sends out inaudible high frequency sound waves and listens for their echoes. The sound waves travel through your body and are reflected off the internal organs. The returning echoes are converted into a picture on a monitor. The pictures are constantly updated so the scan can show movement.

Yes. There are no known risks to ultrasound. It uses sound waves only and no radiation.

Before your ultrasound begins we may ask you to change into a gown. You will have access to a locker for storing your belongings during the scan.

A consultant radiologist will perform the scan. They will ensure you are in the correct position on the examination table. They may dim the lights in the room to see the pictures on the monitor more clearly.

Next, the radiologist will put some gel onto the area of your body that they are scanning.

The cost of an ultrasound scan at our facility may vary depending on the specific type of scan needed. It is recommended to contact UME Health directly or check our website for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. 

A transvaginal ultrasound is a safe and effective diagnostic tool that allows for a closer examination of the pelvic region. This procedure involves the insertion of a small, lubricated ultrasound probe into the vagina, which emits sound waves to create detailed images of the reproductive organs and structures within the pelvic cavity. The probe is gently moved within the vagina to capture images from different angles, providing a comprehensive view of the relevant structures. This procedure is commonly used in gynaecology and obstetrics to assess fertility issues, monitor pregnancies, and diagnose conditions affecting the pelvic region. A qualified, experienced sonographer carries out this procedure, ensuring minimal discomfort. 

During an ultrasound scan done at 7 weeks of pregnancy, you can expect to see the gestational sac, which is the early structure that will eventually develop into the baby. Additionally, you may also be able to detect a flickering heartbeat as the baby's heart begins to form and beat around this time. 

Ultrasound scans are usually performed non-invasively by placing the ultrasound probe over the skin and moving around the region of interest until an optimal image is acquired (i.e., an external ultrasound scan). However, when more detailed imaging is required or when there is poor acquisition of images due to the unfavourable position of the organ or tissue, an internal ultrasound scan may be necessary. In this case, a small probe is inserted into the body through a natural opening (transvaginal and transrectal scans) or via a small incision (laparoscopic and intravascular ultrasound scans) to get closer to the area of interest. In addition to the above methods, there are also specialised ultrasound techniques, such as endoscopic ultrasound, which involves the passing of an ultrasound probe attached to a long tube into the oral cavity and then into the digestive system to visualise organs and tissues in the gastrointestinal tract. This technique allows for detailed imaging of the oesophagus, stomach, and other structures that are not easily accessible with traditional ultrasound methods. 

Breast ultrasound is a non-invasive medical imaging procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed images of breast tissue. It is commonly used as a supplementary tool to mammography and can help detect and diagnose various breast conditions, such as cysts, tumours, or abnormalities in the breast tissue. Furthermore, ultrasound imaging of the breast is particularly useful in distinguishing between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts, providing valuable information for further evaluation and treatment planning. It is also used to guide minimally invasive procedures, such as biopsies or cyst aspirations, by precisely targeting the area of concern. 

The purpose of a 4D scan is to provide expectant parents with a more detailed and realistic view of their baby in the womb. Unlike traditional 2D scans, 4D scans allow for a three-dimensional view of the baby's movements and facial features, providing a memorable and immersive experience for parents-to-be. Additionally, these scans can also help healthcare professionals detect any potential abnormalities or complications in the baby's development. 

While ultrasound is a valuable tool for evaluating the thyroid, it does have certain limitations. One limitation is that it may not provide a definitive diagnosis on its own, as further tests such as biopsies, blood work, or other imaging modalities may be needed for a conclusive result. Additionally, ultrasound imaging can be operator-dependent, meaning that the quality of the images obtained can vary depending on the skill and experience of the person performing the procedure. Furthermore, false positives and false negatives can occur with ultrasound imaging of the thyroid. Therefore, it is important for healthcare professionals to interpret the ultrasound results in conjunction with other clinical findings to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

Ultrasound may detect inflammation or swelling in the appendix, which can be indicative of appendicitis. However, it is important to note that in some instances, the appendix may not be visualised clearly on ultrasound, especially if it is located in a concealed (e.g., retrocecal) position. In such cases, additional imaging tests, like a CT scan, may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis of appendicitis. 

Yes, UME Health does offer ultrasound scanning services. These services are performed by highly trained and experienced technicians using state-of-the-art equipment to ensure accurate and detailed imaging results. 

You should choose UME Health for your medical imaging needs because we are a trusted and reputable healthcare provider with a team of experienced specialists. Our state-of-the-art facilities and advanced ultrasound technology ensure accurate and reliable results, giving you peace of mind about your health. Additionally, our friendly and compassionate staff will provide personalised care, making your experience comfortable and stress-free.

To ensure we achieve the best quality images, there are certain things we ask you to do depending on the type of ultrasound scan you are having.

Breast scan

It is very important that you bring all previous MRI, mammogram and ultrasound reports, CD images and films on the day of the scan for the radiologist to review. This will give the radiologist a full picture of your breast health.

Upper abdominal scan

For a study of the upper abdomen (liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas) you must not eat for at least four hours beforehand. During that time, only drink clear, still water or black tea. Do not drink any dairy products (yoghurt, milk and so on) or fizzy drinks, but do drink to fill your bladder during this time.

Lower abdominal scan

For an ultrasound of the lower abdomen (kidneys, ureter, bladder) you must drink 1.5 litres of water one hour before the ultrasound to fill your bladder. It is essential that you have a full bladder at the time of your scan.

Full abdominal (upper and lower) scan

For a scan of the upper and lower abdomen you must not eat for at least four hours beforehand. During that time, only drink clear, still water or black tea. Do not drink any dairy products (yoghurt, milk and so on) or fizzy drinks. You may empty your bladder until one hour before your scan, when you must drink 1.5 litres of water without emptying your bladder. It is essential you have a full bladder at the time of your scan.

Pelvic scan

For a scan of the pelvic area (pelvis, reproductive or gynaecological system) you must drink 1.5 litres of water one hour beforehand to fill your bladder. It is essential you have a full bladder at the time of your scan.

Ultrasound waves cannot pass through very dense structures and are weakened if they have to pass a long way through the body. It is therefore not effective at examining bones, and the quality of the images may vary from person to person.

Ultrasound procedures typically take 15 to 20 minutes. More complicated scans may take up to 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the part of the body being scanned.

There should be no side effects and you may eat and drink as usual and return to your normal daily routine straight away.

After your scan, if you are a private patient the radiographer will provide you with a CD of your images to take away if you wish. (We do not usually issue CDs for non-private patients, unless the doctor or consultant who referred you has asked us to).

A radiologist will dictate a report which will be sent to the doctor or consultant who referred you, usually within 48 hours. Your report will contain a summary of the radiologist's findings and their recommendations for further follow-up.

You will need to arrange an appointment to discuss your report with the doctor or consultant who referred you.

All patients are entitled to have a chaperone present for any consultation, examination or procedure if they feel it is necessary. This chaperone may be a family member or friend. Sometimes it may be necessary for a formal chaperone (for example, a trained member of staff) to be present.

Please let us know before your appointment if you would like a chaperone.