Sonography

Sonography uses ultrasonic high-frequency sound waves emitted by an ultrasound probe. This probe is placed on the body part to be examined after application of gel on the skin.

Different tissues reflect sound waves differently. The computer converts the reflected waves into images that make organs and other structures visible.

The examination is completely harmless and painless. The pressure of the ultrasound probe can feel unpleasant in sensitive places.

Using ultrasound, all kinds of regions of the body can be evaluated, such as the kidneys, liver, gallbladder, limbs, joints, blood vessels, etc. We also have elastography to evaluate the liver to quantitatively determine the degree of fibrosis / cirrhosis.

Where and how to make an appointment

• Praktijk Kielsevest, Kielsevest 12, 2018 Antwerp: without an appointment on working days from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon and from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., or book online. Breast ultrasound is not available at Kielsevest.
• AZ Monica Campus Antwerpen, Harmoniestraat 68, 2018 Antwerp, or Campus Deurne, Florent Pauwelslei 1, 2100 Deurne (also for breast ultrasound): call +32 3 320 57 70 (working days from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) or use the appointment form for Campus Antwerpen or Campus Deurne.

Please bring your prescription and identity card.

Related examinations: Doppler ultrasound, Mammography

What about pregnancy?

An ultrasound scan during a (possible) pregnancy is harmless.

Procedure

Before the examination

An ultrasound is only done on the basis of a medical prescription. At Praktijk Kielsevest you can also come without an appointment; at the hospital campuses only by appointment. Please note that the examination may start later than planned due to unforeseen circumstances.

To register, first go to the kiosk and then report to the counter of the Medical Imaging / Radiology department with your identity card and medical prescription. Images and/or access codes from relevant previous studies conducted elsewhere must be brought with you.

No specific preparation is required for most ultrasound examinations, with the exception of:

• Ultrasound of the upper abdominal organs (liver, bile, spleen, and pancreas): fast for at least four hours before the examination. You can take your medicines with some water.
• Ultrasound of the lower abdominal organs (kidneys, bladder, male and female pelvis): do not urinate two hours before the examination (full bladder). You do not need to fast.

After the examination

The radiologist makes a report of the imaging findings. You will receive a code/link with which the images and the report can be viewed by yourself and the requesting doctor. How this works is explained on the Results page. The referring doctor will discuss the radiologic report and results with you.