Ultrasound

Chest Ultrasound in Pokhara — Pleural Effusion Scan

In short

A chest ultrasound examines the space around the lungs and the chest wall. It is the most sensitive bedside test for fluid around the lung (pleural effusion), shows whether fluid is free or loculated, marks a safe site for tapping and assesses chest-wall lumps. KDRC in Pokhara performs chest ultrasound for Rs. 1,700.

Also called: USG Chest, thoracic ultrasound, pleural ultrasound, pleural effusion ultrasound, lung ultrasound

Price at KDRC: Rs. 1,700 · see rates

USG ChestKDRC · Pokhara
Duration
A chest ultrasound usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes
Reported by
Consultant radiologists
Location
Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10
Book
061553538 · 9856077433
Last reviewed 16 Oct 2026Updated 16 Oct 2026
Key takeaways
  • A chest ultrasound is the most sensitive bedside test for fluid around the lung (pleural effusion).
  • It shows whether fluid is simple or septated and marks a safe site for tapping.
  • It does not replace a chest X-ray or CT for the lungs themselves.
  • No fasting is needed; you usually sit upright for the scan.
  • At KDRC a chest ultrasound costs Rs. 1,700.
On this page (5 sections)
  1. What is a chest ultrasound?
  2. Why do doctors order a chest ultrasound?
  3. How much does a chest ultrasound cost in Pokhara?
  4. Understanding your results
  5. Why choose KDRC for a chest ultrasound in Pokhara?

What is a chest ultrasound?

Air in healthy lungs blocks ultrasound, so a chest ultrasound does not replace a chest X-ray or CT for the lungs themselves. It is, however, excellent for what lies against the chest wall: the pleural space between the lung and the ribs, the diaphragm, and lumps in the chest wall. It can detect small amounts of pleural fluid that an X-ray may miss, estimate the volume, and show whether the fluid is simple or contains strands and pockets (septations), which affects treatment.

Why do doctors order a chest ultrasound?

  • Suspected pleural effusion: breathlessness, chest pain on breathing, or a whited-out area on X-ray, common with tuberculosis, pneumonia, heart failure, liver or kidney disease and cancer.
  • Marking a safe site before diagnostic or therapeutic tapping of the fluid.
  • Follow-up of an effusion during treatment.
  • Checking diaphragm movement.
  • A lump or swelling of the chest wall.

How much does a chest ultrasound cost in Pokhara?

At KDRC, a chest ultrasound costs Rs. 1,700. Ultrasound-guided diagnostic tapping, when needed, is Rs. 1,500. Rates are for Nepali citizens during regular service hours and may be revised. Call 061-553538 or 9856077433 (Viber) to confirm the price and preparation before your visit. See the full KDRC price list.

Understanding your results

The report states whether fluid is present on each side, its estimated amount, whether it is simple, septated or contains debris, and any thickening of the pleura or consolidation of the lung next to it. A septated or complex effusion often points to infection or tuberculosis and may need drainage. The cause of an effusion is found by testing the fluid, so your doctor may request a tap. Lung problems away from the chest wall are best assessed with a CT scan.

Why choose KDRC for a chest ultrasound in Pokhara?

  • Consultant radiologists: studies are reported by our consultant radiologists, Dr. Bishworaj Bastakoti and Dr. Nawaraj Paudel, both NMC-registered radiologists since 2016 and members of the Nepal Radiologist Society. Meet them on our doctors page.
  • HD ultrasound with colour Doppler and 3D/4D/5D volume imaging on the same system.
  • Scan and tap in one visit: ultrasound-guided pleural tapping can be done at KDRC when your doctor requests it.
  • Central location: Shantipath, Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10. Ultrasound services run any day of the week; call to confirm a time.

How to prepare

  • No fasting is needed.
  • Wear a top that is easy to remove.
  • Bring your doctor's request and recent chest X-ray or CT.

How long it takes

A chest ultrasound usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Price in Pokhara

TestRate (NPR)
USG ChestRs. 1,700

*Rates are for Nepali citizens during regular service hours and may be revised.

See the full KDRC price list

What to expect at KDRC

Register with your doctor's request and recent chest X-ray or CT. No fasting is needed. You undress to the waist and usually sit upright on the edge of the couch, leaning slightly forward with your arms resting on a pillow, which lets fluid collect at the base of the chest. The radiologist scans the back and sides of your chest between the ribs with gel, then may scan the front with you lying down. You will be asked to breathe in and out slowly. The scan is painless and usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. If a tap has been requested, the best site is marked on your skin. Our team tells you when to collect the report.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I get a chest ultrasound in Pokhara?

KDRC at Shantipath, Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10 performs chest ultrasound on HD ultrasound, reported by consultant radiologists. Ultrasound services run any day of the week. Call 061-553538 or 9856077433 (Viber) to confirm a time.

How much does a chest ultrasound cost in Pokhara?

At KDRC, a chest ultrasound costs Rs. 1,700. Rates are for Nepali citizens during regular service hours and may be revised. Call 061-553538 or 9856077433 (Viber) to confirm before your visit.

Can ultrasound see the lungs?

Only partly. Air in healthy lung blocks ultrasound, so it cannot show most lung disease. It is very good at showing fluid around the lung, the chest wall and lung tissue touching the chest wall. CT is the test for detailed lung imaging.

What is a pleural effusion?

It is a build-up of fluid between the lung and the chest wall. In Nepal common causes include tuberculosis, pneumonia, heart failure, and liver or kidney disease. Testing a sample of the fluid helps find the cause.

Do I need to prepare for a chest ultrasound?

No. Eat and drink normally and wear a top that is easy to remove. Bring your recent chest X-ray or CT so the radiologist can compare.

Can the fluid be removed at the same visit?

If your doctor has requested it, ultrasound-guided diagnostic tapping can be arranged at KDRC. The ultrasound marks the safest site, avoiding the lung and other organs.

Sources

  1. medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000086.htm
  2. radiologyinfo.org/en/info/genus
  3. nhs.uk/conditions/pleurisy/

This page is general health information reviewed by our radiologists. It is not a diagnosis — always follow your own doctor's advice. In an emergency, call our 24-hour ambulance or go to the nearest emergency department.

Book this test at KDRC

Shantipath, Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10, Kaski · 061553538 / 9856077433

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