Ultrasound
Noosa Radiology is committed to providing local Doctors, specialists and their patients with the most advanced diagnostic technology available. A new technique called ElastQ uses ultrasound shear wave elastrography to provide non-invasive, reproducible and easily performed methods of assessing liver fibrosis.
The gold standard for diagnosis and staging of liver fibrosis to date has been liver biopsy. Elastography can help diagnose fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disorders, including Hepatitis and Fatty Liver Disease.
A specific pulse sequence technique made by the ultrasound probe produces shear waves within the liver tissue. The propagation speed of these shear waves can be measured. The stiffer the liver the faster the sound waves travel, this indicates more fibrosis is present. Now liver stiffness samples can be acquired during routine ultrasound examination of the liver. Instead of a biopsy, an easy ultrasound exam becomes the routine method to assess liver disease status.
Ultrasound is a safe, efficient and comfortable procedure which helps your doctor evaluate your medical condition. Noosa Radiology provides a full range of diagnostic ultrasound services, specialising in obstetric, breast, vascular and musculoskeletal ultrasound. We also perform routine ultrasound for focused areas of interest such as the thyroid, liver, and kidneys.
Diagnostic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures images of the body's internal organs. Ultrasound pictures are produced by directing a small beam of high-frequency sound waves at the organs being studied. The sound waves echo or bounce off the body's internal structures. The returning echoes are then received by the imaging equipment to produce images on a TV screen. You will be able to see these ultrasound pictures during the examination, and they will be filmed for a permanent record.
Noosa Radiology recognises the importance of high quality ultrasound technologists (sonographers) and equipment. Our staff have over 70 years of cumulative experience in the field of ultrasound.
Preparing for your examination
Please be aware that all ultrasound scans require an appointment. Please call us to arrange a time.
What to bring
- A referral from your GP or specialist
- Medicare card
- Pension/concession card
- Previous films from other clinics relating to the area being scanned with us
Please tell us if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Some ultrasound examinations require preparation including fasting and being well hydrated. Our staff will make you aware of all preparation when booking your appointment. You should continue taking all prescribed medications as usual.
Reasons for an Ultrasound
The advantage of an ultrasound include;
- No radiation is involved
- No oral or intravenous contrast is required
- It is non-invasive (except ultrasound guided biopsy) and
- There are no known complications
What to expect
On your arrival you may be asked to fill out a questionnaire and/or sign a consent form. You may be provided with a gown to wear instead of your own clothes.
In the imaging room, a Sonographer uses a hand-held scanning probe (transducer) placed against your skin and moves it around the area they are scanning. They will apply a warm gel between the transducer and your skin. This clear gel conducts the sound beam and allows the ultrasound probe to pass smoothly over your skin. The gel is easily removed after your examination, and it will not stain your skin or clothing.
At Noosa Radiology, special video display screens have been installed to allow you the opportunity to see your ultrasound pictures as they are being taken. Because ultrasound does not produce radiation, a patient may have one or two family members accompany them during the scan.
When can you get your results?
The images obtained are digitally recorded. At Noosa Radiology our highly trained and qualified Radiologists interpret the images and provides a report for your doctor and/or referring health care provider within 24 hours, although usually 3 hours depending on the complexity of the scan.
You will be able to take your images on the day or collect them at a time that is convenient for you. You may need to make a follow up appointment to discuss the results with your referring practitioner.