Thoracic Ultrasound

What is a thoracic ultrasound?
Why do I need a thoracic ultrasound?
What are the risks of having a thoracic ultrasound?
How do I prepare for a thoracic ultrasound?
What happens during a thoracic ultrasound?
What happens after a thoracic ultrasound?

What is a thoracic ultrasound?

A thoracic ultrasound, also called a chest ultrasound, is a test that takes detailed images of your chest. Ultrasound technology uses high frequency sound waves and their echoes to create images of your organs.

A thoracic ultrasound can take images of your:

• Heart
• Lungs
• Lymph nodes
• Pleural space (space between your lungs and the chest wall).

Why do I need a thoracic ultrasound?

A thoracic ultrasound checks for:

• Excess fluid in the pleural space
• Fluid in other areas of the chest, especially if the amount of fluid is small
• Problems with your heart and its valves.

A thoracic ultrasound can also help a doctor insert a chest drain (which is a procedure that removes fluid).

What are the risks of having a thoracic ultrasound?

A thoracic ultrasound is a safe, painless test. There are no risks. If you are pregnant, it is safe to have an ultrasound. If you have any concerns, speak to your doctor.

How do I prepare for a thoracic ultrasound?

There’s nothing special you need to do to prepare for a thoracic ultrasound. Eat and drink normally before the test and continue to take your prescribed medication.

What happens during a thoracic ultrasound?

Your ultrasound will take place in the Medical Imaging Department, and you will need to wear a hospital gown. Depending on the area being examined, you will either lie on a bed, positioned on your back or side, or sit upright.

During the ultrasound:

• The room lights will be dimmed
• Your technician will apply a small amount of gel on your chest
• Your technician will move a probe, called a transducer, around on your chest
• You may need to hold your breath and change positions
• Images of the structures in your chest will be projected on a computer screen
• The images will be recorded and given to your doctor for review.

What happens after a thoracic ultrasound?

If you’re feeling well after your test, you can return to your normal activities immediately.

Your doctor will be in touch to discuss the results of your ultrasound and determine your future treatment plan.