How long does an ultrasound examination take?
March 12, 2024 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Helma Rothwiller
Dear radiologist,
My name is Sven Lauer and I have some questions regarding an ultrasound examination. A few weeks ago, a change in my liver was detected that needs further investigation. My treating physician has recommended that I undergo an ultrasound examination to obtain more information about the change.
Currently, I often feel tired and exhausted, and I also experience pain in the right upper abdomen. These symptoms worry me, and I would like to know how long an ultrasound examination takes, as I am concerned about how much time I need to allocate for it and whether I may have to wait longer in the waiting room.
I would like to know if the examination is painful and if I need to prepare specifically for it. Are there any possible risks or side effects? And how long does it take to receive the results of the examination?
I would appreciate it if you could answer these questions for me, as I am currently very concerned and uncertain. Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Sven Lauer
Dear Mr. Lauer,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding an ultrasound examination. I understand that it is currently a stressful situation for you to have detected a change in your liver and to be worried about your health. I would be happy to answer all your questions in detail.
An ultrasound examination of the liver usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes. So, you do not need to allocate much time for it. However, depending on the practice's workload, you may have to wait a little longer in the waiting room. Please understand that there may be delays at times.
The ultrasound examination is usually painless and non-invasive. A gel is applied to the skin and a transducer is passed over the area to be examined to obtain images of the liver. There is no special preparation required, you can eat and drink normally.
There are no known risks or side effects associated with an ultrasound examination. It is a safe and gentle examination method that is usually well-tolerated.
The results of the ultrasound examination can usually be discussed with you directly after the examination. Your treating doctor will evaluate the images and inform you of the results. However, in some cases, it may take a little longer for the findings to be evaluated and for you to be informed.
It is important that you do not worry and cooperate with the examination. An ultrasound examination is an important method to obtain further information about the change in your liver and to clarify the cause of your symptoms.
I hope that I could help you with this information. If you have any further questions or feel unsure, do not hesitate to contact your treating doctor.
Best regards,
Helma Rothwiller, Radiologist
