Ultrasound Imaging (Sonography)

Ultrasound — Accurate and Painless Diagnostics in Lisbon

At UMCL, we perform a wide range of ultrasound examinations for adults and children from birth. Ultrasound imaging is a modern, safe, and highly informative diagnostic method that visualizes internal organs and tissues in real time without the use of radiation.


What Is Ultrasound?

Ultrasound (US) is a non-invasive imaging technique based on the reflection of high-frequency sound waves from internal tissues. The returning signals are transformed into images, allowing the physician to assess organs, blood vessels, soft tissues, and joints.


Benefits of Ultrasound

  • No radiation: Ultrasound does not involve ionizing radiation and is safe even for newborns.
  • Non-invasive: No incisions, injections, or special preparation are required in most cases.
  • High diagnostic value: Modern transducers provide detailed visualization of soft tissues, vessels, and internal organs.
  • Real-time imaging: The physician can evaluate organ function, movement, blood flow, and abnormalities during the exam.
  • Fast and comfortable: Most studies take 15–30 minutes and are well tolerated.
  • Widely accessible: Ultrasound is one of the most frequently used diagnostic tools due to its safety and effectiveness.

When Is Ultrasound Recommended?

Ultrasound is used both for initial evaluation and for monitoring chronic conditions. Common indications include:

  • Abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Abnormal lab results or suspected inflammation
  • Suspicion of cysts, masses, or other lesions
  • Monitoring of chronic diseases
  • Assessment of blood vessels, blood flow, venous and arterial health
  • Screening and preventive evaluations

At UMCL, exams can be performed with or without a referral. A referral is helpful for clinical context but is not required.


Types of Ultrasound Performed at UMCL

We provide nearly the full spectrum of diagnostic ultrasound studies for adults and children:

  • Abdominal ultrasound (liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen)
  • Renal and adrenal ultrasound, including assessment of ureters and hydronephrosis
  • Bladder ultrasound and post-void residual measurement
  • Infant hip ultrasound (developmental dysplasia screening)
  • Neonatal neurosonography (cranial ultrasound)
  • Prostate ultrasound (transabdominal and transrectal — TRUS)
  • Thyroid ultrasound
  • Breast ultrasound
  • Pelvic ultrasound (transabdominal and transvaginal)
  • Echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound)
  • Lymph node ultrasound
  • Soft-tissue ultrasound (skin, subcutaneous tissue, masses, lesions)
  • Vascular ultrasound / Doppler studies
  • Joint and musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound
  • Scrotal and testicular ultrasound

Specialists Performing Ultrasound at UMCL

Some studies are performed by subspecialists during their consultations:

  • Cardiologist: echocardiography
  • Gynecologist: pelvic ultrasound (TA and TV)
  • Breast specialist: breast ultrasound
  • Endocrinologist: thyroid ultrasound
  • Vascular specialist (phlebologist): venous and arterial Doppler studies
  • Urologist: renal ultrasound and prostate ultrasound
  • Rheumatologist: MSK and joint ultrasound

Our Equipment

UMCL uses two expert-class ultrasound machines equipped with high-frequency transducers, advanced imaging modes, and pediatric presets, ensuring excellent image quality and diagnostic accuracy.


Important: Multiple ultrasound studies can be performed during a single visit. Some examinations require preparation (such as a full bladder or fasting); this information is provided when booking an appointment.


We do not perform fetal screening ultrasounds.


Abdominal ultrasound
€ 90
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Breast ultrasound
€ 95
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Cardiac ultrasound
€ 130
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Pelvic ultrasound
€ 90
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Thyroid ultrasound
€ 90
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Thyroid ultrasound
€ 90
Book an Appointment

Our doctors

Our doctors

The clinic’s physicians

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Вперед
Ultrasound FAQ — UMCL
1. Do I need a doctor’s referral to get an ultrasound?

No. A referral is not required. However, if you have one, it provides additional clinical information and helps the physician target the examination more precisely.

2. How should I prepare for an ultrasound?

Preparation depends on the type of exam:

  • Abdominal ultrasound: fast for 6–8 hours.
  • Bladder / pelvic TA ultrasound: a full bladder is required.
  • Renal ultrasound: usually no specific preparation.
  • Transvaginal ultrasound: the bladder should be empty.
  • Echocardiogram and thyroid ultrasound: no preparation required.
3. Is ultrasound safe for children?

Yes. Ultrasound is completely safe for newborns and children of all ages because it does not use radiation. UMCL performs all major pediatric ultrasound studies, including neurosonography and infant hip screening, except cardiac ultrasound.

4. How long does an ultrasound take?

Most exams take 15–30 minutes, depending on the type of study and the patient’s anatomy.

5. When will I receive my results?

Results are provided immediately after the exam. A consultation with a specialist can be arranged the same day if needed.

6. Can I have multiple ultrasound exams during one visit?

Yes. UMCL can perform several studies during the same appointment to provide a comprehensive evaluation.

7. Is ultrasound painful?

Most ultrasound exams are painless. Mild discomfort may occur during transvaginal or transrectal (TRUS) imaging. We use warmed gel and gentle techniques to ensure comfort.

8. Is ultrasound safe during pregnancy?

Yes. Ultrasound is safe for pregnant patients. UMCL performs ultrasound exams during pregnancy but does not perform fetal screening ultrasounds.

9. Can ultrasound replace MRI or CT?

Sometimes, but not always. Ultrasound is ideal for soft tissues, vessels, joints, and abdominal organs, while MRI or CT may be preferred for spine disorders, lung pathology, complex trauma, or large tumors.

10. Can I eat before an ultrasound?

For most exams, yes. The exception is abdominal ultrasound, which should be done fasting.

11. Do gas and bloating affect ultrasound quality?

Yes. Excessive gas can reduce visibility during abdominal ultrasound. In some cases, simethicone may be recommended beforehand.

12. Are there any contraindications to ultrasound?

There are no absolute contraindications. Limitations apply only to certain exams, such as TRUS in cases of acute inflammation or severe pain.

13. Can ultrasound results be inaccurate?

Diagnostic accuracy depends on the equipment, preparation, and the physician’s experience. UMCL uses expert-class machines to ensure the highest image quality.

14. Do you accept insurance?

Yes, we accept most international private insurance plans. Coverage can be confirmed when scheduling.

15. When is ultrasound especially recommended?

Ultrasound is especially recommended if you experience abdominal or back pain, joint discomfort, abnormal lab results, swelling, suspected inflammation, varicose veins, thrombosis, or cysts, when preparing for pregnancy, or if a lump or mass is detected.

16. Do I need to remove clothing for an ultrasound?

Only the area that needs to be examined. We provide disposable skirts, socks, and warmed gel for your comfort.

17. Do you perform contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS)?

Not yet. This service is planned for future implementation.

18. Can I bring my child to the appointment?

Yes. Our clinic is fully equipped for pediatric care, and our specialists are trained in pediatric ultrasound techniques.

19. Can I receive my ultrasound report in English?

Yes. UMCL physicians speak English, Portuguese, and Russian. Reports can be provided in the language you prefer.