Private ultrasound scans are available at Spire Dunedin, Reading, Berkshire. This private service allows patients to speak to a Dunedin consultant and receive advice about ultrasound scans, as well as having it performed at Dunedin Hospital.
Pregnancy ultrasounds at Dunedin Hospital
Our gynaecologist Mr Alex Swanton is able to offer pregnancy scans up to 11 weeks, to confirm viability and dates. He is not able to offer nuchal fold testing, or gender identification.
What is an ultrasound scan?
Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to create pictures of the inside of the body.
It can show internal organs as well as blood flow, and as a result ultrasound is used to look for any changes in organs and tissue.
Having an ultrasound
For an ultrasound scan you will be asked to lie on a table, usually facing upwards. A clear gel will be applied to the area of the body being examined, which helps the machine to make secure contact with the body. The radiographer will move part of the machine over the area of interest to get a picture.
Ultrasound is used for a variety of investigations
- Heart
An echocardiogram is a specialised ultrasound scan of the heart which gives a range of information on the size, function and pressures of the heart, as well as information regarding the heart valves.
- Prostate
Ultrasound may be used to examine the prostate gland. It can help identify abnormal growths and whether or not the prostate is enlarged. Ultrasound can also be used to check for any abnormalities of the testes.
- Uterus, ovaries and breast
Ultrasound is used to look at the breast to identify any suspicious lumps. and to examine the uterus and ovaries for abnormalities.
- Other organs
Ultrasound is also used to help identify tumours, cysts or gallstones in organs such as the gall bladder, liver, kidneys, pancreas and bladder.
- Pregnancy
Ultrasound is used to look at the foetus during the early stages of pregnancy, to help assess its age, position and health, and the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby.
- Musculo-skeletal
Ultrasound can help diagnose tears in muscles and tendons, look at bleeding or fluid in muscles and joints and examine ligaments and soft tissue.
- Assisting in complex surgical procedures
Ultrasound is also used to guide procedures such as needle biopsies as it produces a clear image of the affected area.
