What is it?
Ultrasound uses high-frequency ultrasound emitted by a probe and transmitted through the tissues that reflect it to form an image of the region being examined.
Ultrasounds are carried out using the latest technology in high-resolution digital ultrasound equipment, including three-dimensional technology and the option of real-time 3D visualization – 4D, Color Doppler, and panoramic imaging.
High-resolution digital ultrasonic consoles are capable of using fully electronic, multi-frequency probes.
Ultrasound is a simple, safe, harmless and painless technique.
NRD offers you a complete range of ultrasound examinations, including:
Abdominal ultrasound
This test is used to obtain images of the abdominal organs, such as the liver, pancreas, spleen and all the other organs inside the abdomen.
Scrotal / Testicular Ultrasound
Scrotal ultrasound makes it possible to assess the testicles, scrotal sacs and epididymis and whether or not there are any lesions.
Breast Ultrasound
It allows the mammary glands to be studied, as well as assessing the nature of possible solid or liquid lesions.
Pelvic / Gynecological Ultrasound (supra-pubic and endo-vaginal)
It is used to look at the organs inside the pelvis (uterus, ovary and fallopian tubes, as well as the arteries and veins in the area).
The examinations are carried out by a doctor who specializes in interpreting the images.
There are two techniques for observing the organs of the pelvis: the supra-pubic technique (where the probe is placed on the skin of the lower abdomen) and the transvaginal or endovaginal technique (where the probe is placed inside the vagina).
Sometimes, for closer contact with the region to be examined, you will need an endovaginal or endorectal examination.
The insertion of the probe can rarely be responsible for a transient, minor indisposition.
– For the suprapubic examination, the doctor will place a gel on your abdomen to better slide the probe over your skin.
During the examination, you may feel some discomfort from a full bladder.
When the examination is finished, you can urinate.
Prostate ultrasound (supra-pubic and endorectal)
Since the advent of transrectal prostate ultrasound, it has been accepted that this is an excellent test for studying the prostate and diagnosing carcinoma. It is an ultrasound examination that allows us to observe the shape and texture of the prostate, as well as whether or not there is integrity of its capsule and abnormal masses inside it. Ideally, it should be carried out endo- or trans-rectally, by inserting a small probe into the patient’s rectum.
Renal and Supra-renal Ultrasound
The aim is to assess the kidneys in terms of their morphology and density, as well as the urinary tract.
It also makes it possible to detect any nodules or masses, as well as lithiasis or possible urinary obstructions.
Thyroid ultrasound
This ultrasound makes it possible to analyze the volume and density of the thyroid, as well as whether or not there are any lesions.
Supra-pubic bladder ultrasound
It allows the bladder, prostate and seminal vesicles to be visualized and is performed supra-pubically.
Salivary gland ultrasound
It allows us to assess and detect any nodules, cysts, lymph nodes or stones in the parotid, submaxillary and sublingual glands.
How is it done?
- During the ultrasound, you will be lying on a table in a dimly lit room to make it easier to read the images;
- A gel will be applied to the skin to allow the ultrasound to be transmitted;
- The scan provides moving images, controlled via a screen;
Preparation for ultrasound
Some ultrasounds require special preparation (see below).
When you have to have an ultrasound scan, you should bring all the previous radiological and laboratory tests you have.
Preparation for Abdominal Ultrasound
You should fast for 6 hours before your test, but you should take it as normal your usual medication.
Preparation for Scrotal / Testicular Ultrasound
No prior preparation.
Preparing for Breast Ultrasound
No prior preparation.
Preparation for pelvic / gynecological ultrasound (supra-pubic and endo-vaginal)
For this ultrasound scan, you should have a full bladder and not urinate for 1 hour before the scan or, if you do urinate, drink 1 liter of water 1 hour before.
Preparation for Prostate Ultrasound (supra-pubic and endorectal)
If the prostate ultrasound is performed supra-pubically, it is necessary to drink 1 liter of water one hour before the examination.
When performed via the endo- or trans-rectal route, the patient will have 2 cleansing enemas one hour before leaving home.
Preparation for Renal and Supra-renal Ultrasound
No prior preparation.
Preparation for thyroid ultrasound (thyroid)
No prior preparation.
Preparation for suprapubic bladder ultrasound
For bladder ultrasound, it is essential that the patient drinks 1 liter of water before the examination.
Preparation for Salivary Gland Ultrasound
No prior preparation.
Agreements and Prices of Ultrasound
- SNS / ARS (the user does not pay any fee if they have their examination at the NRD with a prescription from the Health Center);
- ADSE (user only pays the co-payment, usually 5.8€), IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurers: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers;
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans.
The price varies depending on the health system or insurance you want to use.
Where to do it?
Ultrasound can be done at the NRD (Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, r/c, 1070 – 060 Lisboa – Junto à Praça de Espanha), or at the X-Clinic (Av. Eng. Duarte Pacheco, nº26 – Middle floor, 1070-110 Lisboa).
