How is an ultrasound examination performed?

The ultrasound examination is performed by a specialist doctor or sonographer. By applying a small amount of gel to the skin, the contact between the ultrasound probe and the skin is improved. The probe is then moved over the area to be examined and the images are displayed in real time on a screen. An ultrasound examination is painless, does not require any special preparation (the upper abdomen requires fasting for a couple of hours) and usually takes 15–35 minutes.