Bladder ultrasounds are great diagnostic tool because of how much information our physicians are able to gather.
This test can show us the size of the bladder, see how much urine is left in the bladder after urination, help us learn about the thickness of the bladder wall, and detect and overall abnormalities with the bladder. For this reason, our physicians may order one in order to confirm a diagnosis after a physical exam.
The bladder ultrasound procedure is painless. We use a method called sonography to extrenally collect images via sound waves that bounce off of the bladder and other organs in order to construct an image. This allows us to do all of our diagnostic imaging of the bladder outside of the body so we don’t have to bring any pain to the patient.
During the procedure, the ultrasound technician may ask that the patient comes into the exam with a full bladder. In some cases, the Affiliated Urologists team may want to look at the bladder with a full bladder, and then again after voiding. However, other than drinking plenty of fluids, the patient does not need to fast or do any other preparations before the examination.
The patient can expect to be lying on his or her back with the lower abdomen area exposed. The sonographer will then turn down the lights so that they can get a clear view of the images the probe is sending out. The sonographer will then spread a smooth, warm gel onto the abdomen area so that the transducer can glide across easily. Overall, the procedure should take 30 minutes to an hour. Many photographs will be taken and sent to the patient’s physician. Patients can expect a call from our staff when the results come back after a couple of days. Then, we can discuss our findings and any courses of action needed to begin treatment.
Patients should not experience and side effects following the procedure. There are no risks involved, and the ultrasound device at our office does not use any radiation like a traditional X-ray. Patients typically will not need to come in for a repeat bladder ultrasound, although a physician may request one to see if the current course of treatment is working.
Affiliated Urologists is an award-winning practice recognized both locally and nationally that has provided service to patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding communities in the Valley, for over 40 years. The physicians emphasize top-of-the-line comprehensive urological care and strive to deliver the highest outcomes for patient satisfaction. To make an appointment, call 602-264-0608 or click here for instructions on scheduling an appointment.
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
