Common procedures
Ultrasound
Performed in Radiology and medical imaging.
What is it?
An ultrasound scan uses sound waves to create pictures of the inside of the body. It is used to look at organs or, for example, a baby during pregnancy.
What to expect
A gel is put on the skin and a small probe is moved over it. The scan often takes 10 to 45 minutes; for some scans you need to drink water so your bladder is full.
General information that does not replace your doctor’s advice or the instructions given before a test.
Reference source: NHS, checked on 13/11/2026. An error or an imprecision? Let us know