Ultrasound (General & MSK)

Understanding Diagnostic Ultrasounds

Ultrasound imaging produces images of inside the body through the use of high-frequency sound waves.

An ultrasound technologist (sonographer) places the transducer (probe) and some ultrasound gel on the skin over the area of interest. High-frequency sound waves are sent and received by the transducer then converted to real-time images on the ultrasound machine. The dynamic nature of ultrasound allows both still images and live image clips to be captured.

Did you know...

Ultrasound is a versatile imaging technique used to visualize a wide range of internal organs and soft tissues, offering real-time imaging without radiation exposure?

Full Range Of Ultrasound Services

For more information, please read our blog where our radiologist helps answer commonly asked questions about Ultrasounds.

Diagnostic Ultrasound

Used to examine internal organs and soft tissues such as the liver, kidneys, thyroid, and bladder.

Ideal For:

Patients experiencing unexplained pain or swelling
Doctors investigating internal abnormalities or monitoring chronic conditions

Diagnostic Ultrasounds Available at CAMIS:

Abdominal
Breast
Carotid arteries
Deep vein thrombosis (for evaluating blood clots)
Limited Ankle Brachial Indices (Ltd. ABI)
Obstetrical
Pelvic with or without Transvaginal
Small parts (lumps & bumps, scrotal, thyroid)

MSK (Musculoskeletal) Ultrasound

A targeted scan focused on muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. This real-time imaging helps detect inflammation, tears, or soft tissue injuries. This service can be ordered by Chiropractors and many Physiotherapists.

Ideal For:

Athletes, weekend warriors, or simply someone experiencing pain during everyday activities
Patients recovering from injuries or dealing with repetitive strain

MSK Ultrasounds Available at CAMIS:

Shoulder
Elbow
Wrist
Hand
Hip
Knee
Ankle
Foot

Prenatal Ultrasound

Used throughout pregnancy to monitor fetal growth and development, check placenta placement, and assess overall maternal health.

Ideal For:

Expecting parents at all stages of pregnancy
OB/GYNs tracking fetal health and positioning

Learn More

Preparing For Your Appointment

PATIENT PREPARATION

Dress comfortably, with loose, easy to remove, clothing.
You may be asked to change into a gown.
Jewelry will have to be removed from the region of interest.
Preparation for each exam is found below. Specific preparation for pediatric patients will be given at the time of booking.
Varying ultrasounds require more specific preparation instruction.

Covered by Alberta Health Care

Exams related to infertility and IVF are private pay

Referrals are necessary for all bookings

Exam Duration: 30 – 60mins

Double the time for twin pregnancies

Common Questions About Ultrasound (General & MSK)

What if I am travelling from out of town for my appointment?

We are pleased to offer preferred hotel rates for patients travelling to our clinics:

Red Deer appointments: Preferred rates at the Red Deer Resort & Casino
Drayton Valley appointments: Preferred rates at APH Hotels / Holiday Inn Express

This may be a convenient option if you:

Are travelling from out of town
Have multiple exams scheduled on the same day
Prefer to arrive the day before your appointment
Have an early morning appointment

If you are travelling for an appointment at one of our Red Deer or Drayton Valley locations, please ask our team about these special rates when booking.

Do I need a referral from a physician?

Yes, for all exams, a valid referral (requisition) from a licensed physician or nurse practitioner is required. We cannot perform your service without this referral.

How soon can I get a pain injection after MSK Ultrasound?

After your Musculoskeletal (MSK) Ultrasound, wait times for booking a injection can vary depending on clinic volume and the urgency of your case. However, typically, the injection appointment is scheduled within 2 to 3 weeks of your Ultrasound, once the radiologist has reviewed the images and the need for an injection is confirmed. Our team will contact you to arrange an appointment.

Can I book a MSK Ultrasound and injection appointment for the same day?

No, Not every diagnostic MSK Ultrasound leads to an injection; the ultrasound helps determine if an injection is indeed necessary and beneficial. By booking your appointments separately, we allow adequate time for a radiologist to review the ultrasound findings and for you to discuss them with your referring physician, ensuring the injection is precisely targeted and medically appropriate. This approach also helps minimize cancellations and optimize scheduling efficiency.

Why is an MSK Ultrasound requisition review required before booking?

All MSK Ultrasounds require prior review and specific protocoling by a radiologist with expertise in MSK imaging. This pre-booking review ensures that the correct type and focus of the Ultrasound are planned, allowing for the most accurate diagnosis and efficient use of appointment time. This process helps us tailor the exam precisely to your physician’s request and your specific condition.

Can I pay for a private Prenatal Ultrasound in Alberta?

No, in alignment with the Canada Health Act, nearly all diagnostic Prenatal Ultrasound exams performed at our facility are considered medically necessary insured services and therefore cannot be privately paid for to bypass public wait times. Our scheduling system prioritizes clinical urgency. Elective “entertainment” ultrasounds (e.g., solely for gender reveal without medical indication) are not offered.

Can family or friends join me during my Ultrasound?

We understand you may wish to share your Ultrasound experience. For Prenatal Ultrasounds, we are pleased to allow one support person into the exam room with you. For other types of Ultrasound exams, we evaluate requests to bring a support person into the exam room on a case-by-case basis, depending on the patient’s emotional or physical needs and the nature of the examination.

Please note that policies can change based on public health guidelines (e.g., during a pandemic), so it’s always best to confirm with our booking staff.