FAQ's
Have a look and see if the answers to your queries are here. If not please don't hesitate to call us on 09 630 3324 and our staff will be happy to help.
Q. Do I need to drink all the water for a pelvic ultrasound?
A. Yes you do. When viewing the internal organs during a pelvic ultrasound scan, our sonographers use your full bladder as a window to see the organs behind it clearly. If your bladder is not full (you haven't consumed enough fluid) then they are unable to see clearly for a complete examination. You will be required to drink more and wait till your bladder is full, or come back again for another appointment.
Q. Is it OK to just have a drink of water or something small to eat if I've been asked not to eat or drink anything?
A. No. If you have been asked not eat or drink anything then it means that we require an empty gut to see your system clearly. Any residual food or liquid may be mis-interpreted.
Q. How and when should I expect the results of the exam?
A. Your doctor will usually receive the report within one or two days and will then give you the results. -
Q. Why do I need an injection for my CT scan?
A. Some patients require an injection of a colourless fluid contrast agent to improve definition of some areas of the body. This helps to distinguish blood vessels from other structures and normal tissue from abnormal tissue.
Q. I’ve heard the CT dye is dangerous?
A. Some patients may develop an allergic reaction to the dye, as is the risk with any medicine. Before each scan we screen the patients for any prior reactions to IV dye, any severe allergies, severe asthma or any other risk factors.
Q. Is CT an x-ray?
A. Yes. A CT scan is an advanced imaging technique which uses x-rays to produce detailed cross-sectional pictures of the body. The cross-sectional images allow us to view the internal organs a lot better than a standard x-ray.
Q. Is the mammography going to hurt?
A. Some compression of the breast is necessary to improve image quality and reduce the radiation dose. Women who have tender breasts may experience some discomfort, this can be reduced by scheduling your mammogram one week after your period.
Q. Why shouldn’t I wear any deodorant?
A. Some deodorants have ingredients in them that simulate calcifications in the breasts. When these appear in mammograms, additional images are required to better visualise them.
Q. Why do I need additional views?
A. Sometimes further x-rays are required to view a particular area of breast tissue more clearly. Extra images may be necessary for areas of calcification or density.
Q. Can I have an ultrasound instead of a mammogram?
Mammograms are the best test to evaluate the entire breast. An ultrasound may be needed to examine particularly dense breast tissue. It should be used in addition to the mammogram not instead of.
Q. I have had many negative mammograms in the past, is it necessary to keep having them?
Since the risk of breast cancer increases with age, it is necessary to continue regular screening. Mammography combined with a physical examination by your doctor is your best chance, picking up over 90 per cent of breast cancers.
Q. How long will the mammography exam take?
The whole visit usually takes about half an hour.