Ultrasound Imaging

What can ultrasound imaging detect?

Ultrasound imaging is a powerful diagnostic tool that helps healthcare providers see inside the body without surgery or radiation. While it’s often associated with pregnancy, ultrasound is used in many areas of medicine to diagnose, monitor, and guide treatment. At Star Medical, our experienced team uses high-resolution ultrasound technology to deliver safe and accurate results.
Common conditions that can be assessed using ultrasound imaging include:

• Pregnancy and prenatal care – Ultrasound is essential for monitoring fetal growth, checking for abnormalities, and determining the baby’s position and due date.
• Abdominal issues – Ultrasound can examine organs like the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, and bladder to detect problems such as stones, cysts, or inflammation.
• Pelvic concerns – It’s commonly used to assess the uterus, ovaries, and other pelvic structures for conditions like fibroids or ovarian cysts.
• Thyroid abnormalities – A thyroid ultrasound can help detect nodules, enlargement, or other irregularities in the thyroid gland.
• Vascular conditions – Doppler ultrasound evaluates blood flow in arteries and veins, helping to detect clots, blockages, or varicose veins.
• Soft tissue injuries – Ultrasound can help assess muscles, tendons, and ligaments, making it useful for diagnosing sports injuries or inflammation.
• Breast lumps – Used alongside mammography, ultrasound can help distinguish between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts in the breast.
• Guided procedures – Ultrasound can guide certain procedures like biopsies or fluid drainage to ensure accuracy and safety.

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have been referred for an ultrasound, book an appointment at Star Medical. We’re here to help you get the answers you need with clarity and care.

What to expect

Ultrasound imaging is a safe, non-invasive scan that uses sound waves to create real-time images of your body. At **Star Medical**, a trained sonographer will apply a special gel to the skin and move a handheld device over the area being examined.
The procedure is painless, usually takes 20–45 minutes, and requires no recovery time. Your results will be reviewed by a medical professional and shared with your referring doctor to help guide your care. By diagnosing the problem, we can find out the source of your pain or discomfort and treat it effectively.

Ultrasound uses and techniques

Ultrasound imaging is a versatile tool used to diagnose and guide treatment for a wide range of conditions. While it does not treat conditions directly, it plays a crucial role in identifying the cause of symptoms and supporting clinical decisions. Based on your needs, ultrasound may be used for:

• Monitoring pregnancy and fetal development
• Evaluating abdominal and pelvic organs
• Assessing blood flow through arteries and veins (Doppler ultrasound)
• Investigating soft tissue injuries
• Examining thyroid, breast, or testicular lumps
• Guiding procedures such as biopsies or fluid drainage

At Star Medical, we use high-quality ultrasound technology to provide clear, accurate imaging that helps your healthcare provider choose the best course of treatment.

Ultrasound Preparation and

Proper preparation helps ensure accurate and clear ultrasound results. Please follow the guidelines below based on the type of scan you are having. If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us before your appointment.

1. Pelvic, Obstetric (Pregnancy), Renal (KUB), Prostate & Bladder Scans

A **full bladder** is required for these examinations. Please follow these instructions:
Empty your bladder 1 hour and 30 minutes before your appointment.

Then, drink 500–750ml of water over the next 30 minutes and do not empty your bladder until after the scan.

If your bladder is not full enough, we may need to delay the scan until it is. If you cannot hold your bladder, please inform reception.

Children:

Under 5 years: A partially full bladder is sufficient. Let the child drink water and hold it at a manageable level.

Over 5 years: Aim for 500–750ml of water depending on the child’s size and hydration level. If they cannot hold a full bladder, they may empty half and drink more water.

2. Abdominal & Renal Artery Ultrasound (e.g. Liver, Gallbladder, Spleen, Aorta)

**Fasting is required** for these scans to reduce gas in the abdomen and improve image quality:
Do not eat for 6 hours before the scan.

You may have a light meal the night before, stopping all food after 10pm if your appointment is the next morning.

Water only (no coffee, tea, or juice) is allowed up until 2 hours before the scan. No food or fluids within the final 2 hours.

Children:

Under 5 years: No preparation needed. Please book the scan 45–60 minutes before their next feed.

Over 5 years: Fasting for 4 hours is required.

3. No Preparation Needed

The following ultrasound types do **not** require any preparation: – Head – Neck – Musculoskeletal (MSK) – Breast – Testes – Superficial lumps under the skin

Booking with our friendly team

At Star Medical, our experienced imaging professionals are committed to delivering high-quality care in a comfortable and professional environment. We take the time to understand your needs and ensure your scan is both thorough and efficient. If you’re in need of ultrasound services in Sydney, contact us today—our friendly team is here to assist you every step of the way. Hotdoc booking is also available through link https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/chatswood-NSW-2067/star-medical-sydney/doctors/ultrasound-imaging-sonowave

Currently, our ultrasound imaging services are only available at our Chatswood clinic. We will be opening for Hornsby soon, so stay tuned for updates on when services will be available there!