Skip to content

Programs & Services - Medical Imaging

Ultrasound > Exams & Procedures > Special Procedures/Interventional

Interventional ultrasound covers a broad category of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including biopsies, cyst aspirations and drainage of fluid collections in the chest, abdomen and superficial tissues.

  • The procedure takes about 30 minutes. The preparation of the procedure takes up most of the time. The needle is used for only a few seconds.
  • You are asked not to eat any solid food or drink anything eight hours prior to your appointment if you are having a procedure done on your abdomen. For all other exams, there are no restrictions or preparation required. Medication can be taken.
  • If you are diabetic please let the receptionist know at the time of booking your appointment.
  • You will be asked to lie down on a table with your abdomen uncovered.
  • An odourless and water soluble gel will be put on your skin by the ultrasound technologist. This helps to transmit the sound waves and allows easy movement of the probe or transducer over the skin.
  • The technologist will move the probe along the skin, taking pictures of the area of concern.
  • The technologist will leave the room once all the pictures are taken in order to develop the images and show them to the radiologist.
  • The radiologist will then come into the room and explain the procedure to you before beginning any interventional procedure.
  • Depending on the procedure, anesthetic may be administered. This is similar to the anesthetic dentists use when filling cavities. A small needle will be inserted into the skin to remove microscopic cells. This needle is smaller than the ones used for taking blood.

Does this hurt?

You may experience some discomfort. Every effort is made to minimize any discomfort during the procedure.

Will I be able to go to work after the exam?

Yes. The discomfort only lasts a few seconds. Many patients do go to work after the exam. We may keep you in the department for five to 10 minutes after the procedure just to make sure you are feeling well.

When will I get my results?

If you are seeing your doctor immediately after your ultrasound appointment, a hand written report preliminary will be given to you. If you are not seeing your doctor following the ultrasound test, a final report will be mailed to your doctor within seven days.