Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, involves producing images of the body using high frequency sound waves. Ultrasound examinations do not use ionizing radiation (as used in x-rays), and do not cause any known harm.

Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show the structure and movement of the body's internal organs.

You will be asked to lie on a couch and a water based gel is placed on to the skin. A small hand held probe called a transducer is then moved over the skin.

If you are an NHS patient referred by your GP in the area where we have contracts with the PCT (Fenland area of NHS Cambridgeshire and NHS Mid Essex) then no.

If you live outside of these areas and wish to avoid waiting for a hospital appointment then we can offer you a private scan.

This depends on what type of examination you are having.

In some cases you will need to starve for 6 hours and in other cases you will be asked to drink water.

We will inform you of any preparation that is required. It is advisable to wear comfortable loose fitting clothes.

We carry out continuous Quality Assurance and Audits of our service to ensure we provide a high quality service to our patients.