General Ultrasound Scanning

Don't wait for answers. Our advanced technology and expert sonographers deliver clear, detailed ultrasound images for fast, accurate diagnoses. Our painless and risk-free ultrasounds allow your doctor to assess your condition and provide you with an effective treatment plan. With appointments available on short notice and ultrasound results usually ready the same day, we can give you clarity and decide on the next steps to help you feel better with no waiting time. 

We always prioritise your comfort with private, calming exam rooms and convenient online booking. Our seamless care approach includes in-house follow-up consultations with doctors and referral assistance, ensuring you receive the most comprehensive care possible.

Schedule your general ultrasound appointment today.

What is an Ultrasound Scan?

An ultrasound scan is carried out using a specialised scanner that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of internal organs shown on a computer screen. Ultrasound scanning is commonly used in pregnancy but is also useful to assess soft tissue lumps, identify muscle, tendons, and ligament injuries, and evaluate fluid and inflammation in the joints.

Why Do Prices Vary?

Ultrasound scans vary in cost due to two things: their complexity and the need for expert interpretation. At Midland Health, we offer both scans with radiologists and scans with sonographers, which is reflected in our pricing. 

Scan with a Radiologist: These scans provide the highest level of expertise during your appointment. A radiologist, a medical doctor specialising in interpreting medical images, will perform your scan and give you a preliminary medical opinion on the spot. This is ideal for urgent situations or when a complex interpretation is required.

Scan with a Sonographer: A highly skilled sonographer will conduct your scan, capturing detailed images. They will then generate a report for a doctor (usually your GP) to review. Your GP will then share the report's findings with you, potentially during a separate appointment. This option is a good choice for routine scans where a radiologist's immediate opinion isn't necessary.

Our Range Of Ultrasound Services 

Your GP may recommend an ultrasound as the best way to diagnose certain conditions such as gallbladder disease, joint inflammation, breast cancer, prostate cancer, thyroid gland dysfunction, general genital problems and liver disease. 

In our private Birmingham clinic, we offer a wide range of ultrasound services, including: 

What to Expect from Your General Ultrasound Examination

The ultrasound scan procedure is painless and most require no preparation; with Midland Health, our GPs will put you at ease and talk you through every step of the way. The entire exam usually takes about 30 minutes. Here’s what to expect before, during and after the scan. 

Before the Procedure

Once you arrive, you will be invited into one of our private examination rooms. To prepare for the exams, you may be asked to remove your clothing. You will then be asked to lie down or sit down comfortably on a couch with drapes to protect your dignity. The lights in the room will be dimmed before the examination begins so our sonographer can see the ultrasound image more clearly on the screen. 

During the Procedure

The ultrasound specialist will apply a water-based gel to the examined area which may feel a little cold. Then, a hand-held device called a transducer will be applied to the area. This device sends high-frequency waves into the body and listens for the responding echo sound. Based on the information received, an ultrasound image is produced by a computer and appears on the screen in real-time. 

The ultrasound waves are inaudible to the human ear so you won’t hear any noise. You may feel a little pressure when the transducer is moved across the surface of the skin which can cause a little discomfort. However, the procedure is completely painless. 

After the Procedure

Once the scan is complete, the gel will be wiped off and you will be asked to change back into your clothing in private. Then, our consultant radiographer will talk to you about the next steps, as well as how and when you will receive your results. After this, you will be allowed to go home immediately. 

For some conditions, it may be suggested you have an ultrasound-guided injection. This procedure involves a local anaesthetic, so you will not be able to drive home after an appointment. 

If you have any questions or concerns about an ultrasound that has been recommended, contact your Midland Health GP who will be happy to talk things through.

Transvaginal Ultrasounds

A transvaginal ultrasound is a non-invasive and useful tool for diagnosing various pelvic pathologies, including fibroids, polyps, ovarian cysts, PCOS, and severe endometriosis. It helps healthcare providers evaluate the location, size, and characteristics of these conditions, facilitating accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. However, in some cases, additional imaging or diagnostic methods may be required to confirm the diagnosis or provide more detailed information.

A transvaginal ultrasound can discover:

Kidney Ultrasounds

Kidney ultrasound scans, also known as renal ultrasound, are a valuable diagnostic tool for evaluating a wide range of conditions affecting the kidneys. These internal images are able to diagnose:

What is a Kidney Ultrasound Used For? 

A kidney ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique used to evaluate the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. It serves to assess the size, location, and shape of the kidneys, examine the ureters for obstructions or abnormalities, and evaluate the bladder for any irregularities. Kidney ultrasound is a valuable tool for diagnosing a range of kidney and urinary tract conditions, including stones, cysts, tumours, and obstructions, aiding in treatment planning.

Ultrasound Scans for Gallbladder Problems

Ultrasound scans are frequently used as a key diagnostic method for assessing and diagnosing gallbladder problems. This imaging technique is particularly effective in detecting gallstones, including very small ones, which are a common issue associated with the gallbladder. Gallstones can obstruct the flow of bile and cause considerable discomfort for individuals. An ultrasound scan can provide clear and detailed images of the gallbladder, allowing healthcare professionals to identify the presence, size, and location of these stones. This information is crucial for making a diagnosis and planning appropriate treatment.

Ultrasound scans are the go-to diagnostic tool for gallbladder problems, excelling at detecting gallstones of various sizes. However, for conditions like cholecystitis, ultrasound may not provide a definitive diagnosis on its own, which is why it is always recommended to seek a comprehensive clinical evaluation to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Our Ultrasound Team

Visit Our Ultrasound Clinic in Birmingham

We offer top-quality care at our cutting-edge facilities situated in Edgbaston, Birmingham. Housed within a charming Georgian building on the Calthorpe Estate, our highly trained and empathetic healthcare providers will guide you or your child through the entire journey of autism testing, diagnostics, and treatment.

You'll find our ultrasound clinic conveniently positioned at Highfield Clinic, 23a Highfield Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3DP.

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