Masking update: As of October 16, 2024, masks are required in patient care areas, patient rooms and waiting rooms. 

Ultrasound

We use high frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of your body. 

Medical Imaging menu
Overview
Clinics and services
Refer a patient

What we do

Ultrasound is a type of medical imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of your body.

These images can show body parts, organs and blood flow. Unlike some other imaging methods, ultrasound doesn’t involve any radiation.  

During your ultrasound appointment, an ultrasound technician will apply a water-based gel to the area that is being examined. The technician will then press a probe firmly against your skin and glide it over the area several times to capture the images. 

We offer different types of ultrasound exams, including the following:  

  • Abdominal ultrasound
  • Carotid, jugular or vertebral ultrasound
  • Prenatal ultrasound
  • Pelvic (non-pregnant) ultrasound
  • Peripheral venous ultrasound
  • Penile ultrasound (with or without injection)
  • Scrotal (testicular) ultrasound
  • Thyroid ultrasound
  • Transrectal ultrasound
  • Transvaginal ultrasound 

What to expect

Before your appointment

Please arrive 15 minutes early for your appointment. If you are late, your appointment may be rescheduled.

Please find the type of ultrasound you are getting in the list below and follow the specific preparation instructions. You should also follow any instructions given by your physician or when you booked the ultrasound.

At your ultrasound

The length of your appointment depends on of the type of ultrasound you are having. It can last between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how complex the procedure is.

Our team tries to stay on time, but your appointment may be delayed by unforeseen circumstances. It is a good idea to be prepared in case your appointment runs late.  

If you want a physician other than your referring doctor copied on the results report, please let our receptionist know before your test.

After your appointment

A report will be sent to your physician within 10 days. 

What to bring

  • Health (OHIP) card or valid health-care coverage
  • A bag to store your personal belongings
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing
  • A support person, if needed 

How to access our services

You need a referral from a health-care provider to be seen at medical imaging. Visit our referral criteria for more information. 

icon-map-pin
Location

Department of Medical Imaging
600 University Avenue
5th floor

icon_globe
Directions

See maps, directions and parking for Mount Sinai Hospital.

icon_phone
Contact

Phone: 416-586-4800 ext. 4450
Fax: 416-586-1569

icon_clock
Hours

Contact hours:
Monday to Friday
8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Closed for lunch
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Appointment hours:
Monday to Friday 
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Types of ultrasounds

Open all

An abdominal ultrasound is used to assess organs and other structures in the abdomen, including the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, bile ducts, spleen and abdominal aorta.

If your appointment is in the morning, do not eat or drink anything after midnight. You may drink enough water to take any medication that you need.

For afternoon appointments, have a light breakfast at 7 a.m., like dry toast and a clear drink such as water or apple juice. Avoid eating dairy or fatty foods. Do not eat or drink anything else until after your test, especially if you are diabetic.

Please also follow any other instructions from your referring physician or our booking office.

This ultrasound examines the major blood vessels in your neck.  

There is no preparation for this exam. 

This ultrasound examines a growing embryo or fetus in a pregnant patient. 

If you are in the first trimester of your pregnancy, do not empty your bladder for one hour before the exam. You can eat and drink as you normally would.  

There is no preparation for the second and third trimester scans. 

A pelvic ultrasound is used to examine pelvic organs and structures, such as the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

Do not drink anything for four hours before your appointment, including coffee and tea.  

Do not empty your bladder for two hours before your appointment.

You may drink enough water to take any necessary medications.

Please follow any other instructions from your referring doctor or our booking office. 

This ultrasound examines the veins in your arms or legs.  

There is no preparation for this exam. 

This ultrasound examines the blood flow into and out of the penis.  

Sometimes, you may need an injection of medication into the shaft of the penis with a small needle.  

There is no preparation for this exam. 

This ultrasound examines the testicles and other structures inside your scrotum.  

There is no preparation for this exam. 

This ultrasound examines the thyroid, which is a gland in your neck that is important for metabolism.  

There is no preparation for this exam. 

This is an internal ultrasound that examines your prostate gland.  

You may need to purchase an enema to clear your rectum at your local pharmacy before the exam. You will be given preparation instructions when you book your appointment.

This ultrasound involves inserting a probe inside the vagina to examine the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix or fetus.

Do not drink anything for four hours before your appointment, including coffee and tea. Try not to empty your bladder for two hours before your exam. You will be asked to urinate just before the examination begins.