Ultrasound Scanning
Our ultrasound Singapore service uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of internal organs and blood flow, helping doctors assess a patient’s condition without using X-rays. Ultrasound exams do not use X-Rays.
It is a non-invasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Most ultrasound examinations are painless, fast and easy.
Ultrasound images are captured in real-time; they can show the structure and the movement of the body’s internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels.
What This Scan Can Help Assess
Depending on the area being examined, an ultrasound scan may help your doctor assess the size, shape, and appearance of internal organs and soft tissues. Common reasons for referral may include:
- Abdomen and liver area — for abdominal discomfort, bloating, or follow-up of earlier findings
- Kidneys and bladder — for urinary symptoms or to assess structural changes
- Pelvic organs — for uterine, ovarian, or other pelvic concerns when imaging is requested
- Superficial lumps or soft-tissue areas — when imaging is needed to guide the next clinical step
If you are unsure which examination has been ordered, our team can explain the requested scan before your appointment.
Preparations depend on the type of ultrasound you are having:
- For a study of the liver, gallbladder, spleen, and pancreas, you may be asked to avoid eating for eight to 12 hours before the test.
- For ultrasound of the uterus, ovaries and kidneys, you may be asked to drink four to six glasses of liquid about an hour before the test to fill your bladder and hold it until the procedure is over.
After an ultrasound exam, you should be able to resume your normal activities.
Before Your Appointment
Preparation depends on the examination requested. Following the correct instructions helps the team obtain clearer images.
What To Bring
- Identification document
- Referral memo or doctor’s order, if applicable
- Relevant past reports, if available
Referral And Payment Notes
If you are unsure whether a referral is needed, or whether your scan may be claimable, please check with the clinic before your appointment. For eligible outpatient diagnostic scans, MediSave use is subject to prevailing CPF rules and clinical indication.
What Happens During The Scan
- You will be guided to the scan room and asked a few checks about your preparation.
- A clear gel will be applied to the area being examined to help the probe capture images more clearly.
- The sonographer or radiology team will move the probe gently over the skin to obtain real-time images.
- When the scan is complete, the gel will be wiped away and you can usually continue with your normal day.
After The Appointment
Your images will be reviewed according to the clinic’s usual reporting workflow. If your doctor needs more information, you may be advised on the next step or whether further imaging is appropriate.
Things To Note
The most suitable imaging test depends on the area being assessed and the clinical question. In some cases, ultrasound may be one part of a wider diagnostic work-up.
Ultrasound FAQs
1) Do I need a referral before I book a scan?
A referral may be helpful depending on the reason for the scan and your clinic’s booking process. If your doctor has already advised an imaging test, please bring the referral memo or request form with you. If you are unsure whether a referral is needed, it is best to check with the clinic before your appointment.
2) How should I prepare for an abdominal scan?
Preparation depends on the type of scan requested. For scans involving the liver, gallbladder, spleen, or pancreas, you may be asked to avoid food for 8 to 12 hours before the appointment. You may usually drink plain water unless your care team advises otherwise. Always follow the preparation instructions given for your specific examination.
3) Do I need a full bladder for pelvic or kidney imaging?
For some pelvic, bladder, uterine, ovarian, or kidney scans, you may be asked to drink water about an hour before the examination so that your bladder is full. A full bladder can help improve visibility for certain scans. If this applies to your appointment, the clinic will usually let you know how much water to drink and whether you should avoid urinating before the scan.
4) How long will my appointment take?
The scan itself is usually completed within about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the body area being examined and the complexity of the study. Please allow additional time for registration, changing, and pre-scan preparation where needed.
5) When will my results be ready?
Your images will be reviewed and reported according to the clinic’s usual reporting process. Turnaround time may vary depending on the type of scan and whether additional review is required. If you need the estimated reporting timeframe, you can check with the clinic when booking or at your appointment.
6) Can diagnostic scans be paid using MediSave?
MediSave may be used for eligible outpatient diagnostic scans, subject to CPF rules and clinical indication. The current CPF guidance states that patients may use up to $600 per year for outpatient scans used to diagnose or treat a medical condition. If you are unsure whether your scan qualifies, please check with the clinic before your appointment.
Back to other medical imaging services.