Instrumental Examination

Modern instrumental diagnostic techniques help in detecting any changes occurring inside the human body, identifying diseases, and diagnosing them at an early stage, thus offering the most effective treatment. It is highly recommended to undergo annual health check-ups, which involve various tests, even if you feel well and have no complaints about your health.

Northway Medical Centre is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment for endoscopy, ultrasound scanning, electrocardiography (in a relaxed state and during exercise), Holter monitoring, 24-hour blood pressure monitoring, X-ray, clinical physiology examinations of the eyes, ears, nose, throat, obstetrics, and gynaecology.

The most common instrumental diagnostic techniques

One of the most frequently used diagnostic tests is X-ray (radiography). X-ray is primarily used to examine the condition and functionality of various organs and body systems. It aids in assessing the lungs, bones, and joints, as well as diagnosing any changes or injuries, such as bone fractures or inflammation. An X-ray test can only be conducted with a referral from a healthcare practitioner.

Another widely used test is an ultrasound scan (or sonogram). This quick, accurate, and painless test is considered one of the most essential diagnostic tools in various fields of medicine. An ultrasound scan is a reliable and efficient method for diagnosing cardiovascular diseases, thyroid conditions, breast abnormalities, stomach issues, kidney and bladder problems, pelvic disorders, and many other diseases. It provides real-time imaging, allowing medical specialists to determine the structure, size, and location of organs. Moreover, it assists in guiding further examinations, making precise diagnoses, prescribing the most effective treatments, and achieving optimal treatment outcomes.

According to scientific research, ultrasound is a completely safe procedure. Ultrasound waves are based on non-ionizing radiation, which means it does not require any special safety measures and does not pose any risks to patients or medical technicians performing the scans. Therefore, it can be performed as needed, without any limitations.

Northway Medical Centres utilize Mindray’s new generation ultrasound machine, equipped with cutting-edge features. This machine, produced by a leader in medical equipment, allows for comprehensive examination of all soft tissues in the human body. It can detect lesions or lumps under the skin, including blood vessels, nerves, muscles, internal organs, joints, tendons, as well as identify abnormalities such as tumors, cysts, stones, areas of inflammation, thickened tissues, tears, and symptoms of fluid accumulation, among others.

Ultrasound scans play a crucial role in diagnosing tears in muscles, tendons, or ligaments. They also facilitate monitoring the healing process of wounds in tissues and the resorption of fluids. It is recommended to undergo an ultrasound scan if you have any palpable skin or subcutaneous lesions in any part of your body. Notably, palpable lesions or lumps in the neck or breasts may be indicative of underlying diseases. This examination enables the doctor to determine the nature of the lesions or lumps and can even facilitate an ultrasound-guided biopsy.

An ultrasound scan is a significant diagnostic tool in gynaecology and obstetrics. Prenatal ultrasound scans are routinely performed on all pregnant women during their pregnancy. This safe procedure is used to measure the size of the fetus, examine its anatomy, assess the level of amniotic fluid, determine the position of the placenta, and detect any congenital anomalies. In the case of multiple pregnancies (with two or three babies), ultrasound scans are usually conducted on a monthly basis or even more frequently.

Ultrasound scans are also widely used in the diagnosis of gynaecological diseases. In gynaecology, an ultrasound scan can be ordered during routine check-ups as well as in cases of pelvic pain, irregular periods, or bleeding between periods. During this test, the doctor evaluates the position of the uterus, its size, any abnormalities within the endometrium and uterine muscles, and examines the ovaries. If a patient has an intrauterine coil, the doctor will assess its position. If the exam detects any uterine fibroids (myoma), the doctor will evaluate their size and location. Subsequent ultrasound scans will monitor their growth patterns. In the case of ovarian cysts, the doctor will examine markers that help determine whether they are benign or malignant. Additional tests may be ordered by the doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Ultrasound scans also serve as a reliable tool in diagnosing endometrial polyps, which are changes in the uterine lining. It is recommended to have this test performed after menstruation when the endometrium is at its thinnest, allowing for the detection and diagnosis of even minor changes.

The ultrasound specialists at Northway Medical Centres would like to remind patients that routine check-ups should include an ultrasound scan once every two years, even if there are no complaints or diagnosed conditions. In the case of detecting abnormalities or changes during the examination, it should be repeated every 6-12 months depending on the nature of the findings.

An endoscopy is a diagnostic tool commonly used to diagnose disorders of the stomach, gastrointestinal tract, and large bowel. It involves the use of a flexible optical device to examine the lining of internal organs, detect abnormalities in the mucous lining, and assess its condition. If necessary, a doctor may take a biopsy during the endoscopic exam to obtain results indicating the presence or absence of cancer. Endoscopy can also be used to stop bleeding, remove polyps, or foreign bodies. Additionally, an endoscopic exam can serve as a tool to evaluate abnormalities during the course of treatment.

At Northway Medical Centre, our specialists perform various types of endoscopic exams, including upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (or upper endoscopy), colonoscopy of the large bowel, and others.

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (or gastroscopy) is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms such as stomach pain or discomfort, unexplained nausea and vomiting, digestive disorders, bloating, bleeding, anemia, weight loss, or loss of appetite.

A Colonoscopy may be indicated for patients with symptoms such as rectal bleeding, bloody or non-bloody diarrhea, anemia, bowel evacuation disorders (such as constipation or recurring diarrhea), blood in stool, a feeling of incomplete bowel movement, or weight loss. In the event of detecting any pathological abnormalities (such as inflammation, polyps, tumors, etc.), the doctor may take a biopsy and conduct a microscopic examination of the tissue. This examination may also be performed to diagnose bowel cancer.

How to prepare for the examinations

Effective patient preparation is crucial for ensuring the quality of the examination outcome. Failure to follow the provided preparation instructions may result in the postponement of the examination, as the doctor will be unable to perform it properly. To ensure the most accurate outcome and avoid the need for repeat procedures, we have compiled a list of instructions prepared by our medical specialists. By following these instructions, you can be confident in obtaining the best possible results.

How to prepare for an X-ray

• There is no need for special preparation for an X-ray examination. However, during an X-ray, patients may be asked to remove certain clothing or jewellery that could obstruct normal visualization.

How to prepare for an ultrasound scan

• If you are an adult undergoing an ultrasound scan, it is recommended that you refrain from eating or drinking for 6 hours prior to the procedure. The evening before the exam, have a light meal and avoid consuming foods known to cause flatulence, such as pickled foods or foods containing flour. For children, eating should be avoided for 4 hours before the procedure, although they can drink up to 100 ml of still water up to 2 hours prior.
• For a kidney and bladder ultrasound, it is important to drink approximately 1.5 litres of still water 2 hours before the procedure and arrive with a full bladder. If maintaining a full bladder is challenging, you may choose to arrive at the clinic early (30 minutes prior) to consume the water, but make sure to inform your doctor.
• For pelvic ultrasounds or kidney and bladder ultrasounds, fasting is required for 6 hours before the procedure. However, you can drink up to 1.5 litres of still water 1-2 hours prior and should arrive with a full bladder for the examination.
• For a renal artery ultrasound, fasting from both food and drink is required for 6 hours before the procedure. The evening before the exam, have a light meal and avoid consuming foods known to cause flatulence.
• Prior to a transrectal ultrasound, it is advisable to drink fluids and maintain a full bladder.
• If you are preparing for a gynaecological ultrasound scan performed through the abdominal wall, it is recommended to consume liquids and ensure that your bladder is full.

How to prepare for endoscopic examinations

• For a gastrointestinal endoscopy (fibrogastroscopy), it is important not to eat or drink anything for 7–8 hours prior to the examination. If the procedure will be performed under sedation, it is necessary to refrain from eating and drinking throughout the entire day. If you are taking medication for blood pressure control, please take them in the morning with some water.
• In preparation for proctology exams such as rectoscopy or anoscopy, it is necessary to use 4 micro-enemas before the examination. Two micro-enemas should be used in the evening, and the remaining two should be used 2 hours before the exam. Micro-enemas can be purchased at a pharmacy. Additionally, it is important to abstain from eating or drinking (except water) for 6 hours before the exam.
• When undergoing a colonoscopy, proper bowel preparation is crucial for optimal procedure outcomes, as emphasized by medical specialists. Incomplete bowel cleansing may hinder the detection of abnormalities.
  • It is imperative to follow the doctor’s instructions and adhere to a special diet for 3-7 days prior to the procedure. This preparation is necessary to ensure accurate results, diagnose pre-cancerous polyps, remove them, and prevent the development of bowel cancer.
  • On the day preceding the procedure, a special formula must be consumed to clear the bowel. If the colonoscopy is scheduled in the morning (8.00-12.00 a.m.), the preparation formula should be consumed on the previous night. For afternoon appointments, it is recommended to consume half of the formula in the evening and the other half in the early morning of the exam day. In the case of an evening colonoscopy, the entire preparation formula can be consumed in the morning of the exam day. It is essential to complete the consumption of the formula at least 6 hours before the examination. In instances of constipation, the doctor may suggest performing the bowel preparation procedure a few days prior to the exam.
  • For 2-3 days before the procedure, it is advisable to consume low-fiber foods. It is recommended to avoid seeds, nuts, whole grains, cereals, red/purple-colored food, and drinks. On the day before the procedure, a light breakfast and clear fluids are permitted. Eating or drinking is not allowed on the day of the procedure. If you need to take any medication on the exam day, you can do so in the morning with some water.

• If intravenous anesthesia is scheduled for the endoscopy, it is necessary for the patient to be accompanied by a companion. Please be aware that driving any form of transportation after the examination will not be permitted.