Ultrasound Scans
About this service
A soft tissue ultrasound is an imaging scan performed in our rooms at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek to get a clear picture of a soft tissue area anywhere on the body, helping your doctor investigate a lump, swelling, or area of pain. Using sound waves rather than radiation, the scan can show whether a lump is solid or fluid-filled, its size, and its relationship to surrounding tissue, giving useful information to guide diagnosis or further care.
A gel is applied and a probe moved gently over the area, with your doctor discussing the findings with you as soon as the scan is complete.
What to expect
- Any lump, swelling or painful area on the body can be scanned, and there is nothing to prepare
- The doctor first feels the area, then applies gel and passes a small high-frequency probe over and around the lump
- The scan shows whether the lump is solid or fluid-filled, how large it is and how it sits against nearby tissue
- Pressure on a tender lump may be briefly uncomfortable, but nothing pierces the skin
- You hear the findings before you leave, and further tests are arranged only if the scan calls for them
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A new or growing lump anywhere on the body
- Unexplained swelling or a soft tissue mass
- Pain or tenderness in a specific area
- Follow-up on a lump found during examination
- A doctor's recommendation for further investigation
Frequently asked questions
Can a soft tissue ultrasound tell if a lump is a cyst?
Often, yes. A fluid-filled cyst and a solid lump look quite different on ultrasound, and the scan also shows the size, edges and blood flow of the lump. That helps your doctor decide whether it can simply be watched or whether further tests are needed.
Do I need to prepare for a soft tissue ultrasound?
No preparation is needed. Wear clothing that lets us reach the area easily and you can eat and drink as normal. If the lump is under a plaster or dressing, mention it when you book.
What happens after a lump is scanned?
Your doctor explains the findings while you are still in the rooms. Many lumps turn out to be harmless fatty lumps, cysts or swollen glands that need no treatment. If the scan raises a concern, a blood test, a biopsy or a referral to a specialist may be advised.
Ready to book your soft tissue ultrasound?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.