INTESTINAL ULTRASOUND

WHAT IS AN INTESTINAL ULTRASOUND?

Intestinal ultrasound is a non invasive way to assess for and monitor Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and functional gut disorders.

It uses sound waves to create clear, detailed images of the small and large intestines, showing where inflammation or complications are occurring.

Intestinal ultrasound is quick, pain-free and offers real-time monitoring of your disease.

WHAT DOES GETTING AN INTESTINAL ULTRASOUND INVOLVE?

You do not need any bowel preparation before an intestinal ultrasound and can eat and drink as normal beforehand with no fasting. During your appointment you will need to lift your shirt and expose your abdomen so that the ultrasound can view the correct area. The specialist will put some gel on your stomach then they will move the probe around for about 10-20 minutes to see different parts of your intestines.

You will discuss the results of the ultrasound with your gastroenterologist at your next appointment as the results of the ultrasound will help you specialist decide on the next steps for managing your condition.

HOW MUCH DOES AN INTESTINAL ULTRASOUND COST?

Medicare will cover the cost of your ultrasound. If you are not covered by Medicare you will be charged $240.0. If you have overseas insurance we will provide you with a receipt and you can claim this with your insurer.

DO INTESTINAL ULTRASOUNDS REPLACE THE NEED FOR A COLONOSCOPY?

Intestinal ultrasounds do not replace the need for colonoscopy. In some people, monitoring inflammation with an intestinal ultrasound and a stool test (to measure faecal calprotectin) can reduce the frequency of colonoscopies. This is based on individual needs.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF INTESTINAL ULTRASOUNDS?

Intestinal ultrasounds are safe and painless, with no needles or medicines or bowel preparation required beforehand.

Intestinal ultrasounds can be used to track IBD and check if treatments are working. This makes it easy to adjust treatment quickly if needed.