Ultrasound

Rectal ultrasound is used to examine lesions of the rectum, e.g. rectal polyps or masses. It focuses on the extent of involvement of the rectal wall. It also looks at inflammatory and infectious conditions surrounding the rectum.

Anal ultrasound evaluates the anal sphincter muscle. Patients who suffer from incontinence, tears, inflammatory and infectious conditions or fistulas are often referred for an anal ultrasound.

There is no preparation needed for these ultrasound scans.

Once the patient has changed into a hospital gown he/she will be asked to lie on the ultrasound table on the left side with the knees bent. The ultrasound transducer will then be introduced carefully into the rectum by the radiologist. Pictures and measurements will then be taken.

The ultrasound transducer is small - about the size of a finger. There may be slight discomfort as the probe is inserted. However, this is minimal and is only of brief duration.

The results will be sent to your referring doctor who will discuss the results with you.