Ultrasound

What is Ultrasound?

An ultrasound scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of sound waves and computer technology to see inside the body. It is used to study parts of the body such as the liver, testicles, uterus and other organs. This exam is performed to look at the size of the organs and any abnormalities within them. Ultrasound can also be used to study blood vessels in organs as well as in the neck, arms and legs.

Ultrasound generally involves little or no discomfort as it is non-invasive. It does not use radiation and there are no known side effects.

General Preparation Tips

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the exam to complete any necessary paperwork.

The following Ultrasound exam modalities require no special pre-exam preparation: Arterial, Musculoskeletal, Scrotal, Trans-vaginal, Thyroid, and Venous.

Other Exam Types That Require Preparation

Pelvic

Please drink 32 oz. (one quart, or four eight-ounce glasses) of water 1 hour prior to the time of the exam. This will ensure a full bladder, which facilitates a proper diagnostic setting. (If your bladder becomes painfully full, feel free to urinate just enough to be comfortable while still ensuring a full bladder for the exam.)

Abdomen (Kidneys, Gallbladder, Liver, Pancreas, Aorta, and Spleen)

It is important that you take nothing by mouth (i.e., no food or water) after midnight of the evening before a morning abdominal Ultrasound. If the exam is scheduled for an afternoon, please be sure to fast for at least 4 hours prior to the exam. (Note: If the exam is called for under urgent conditions and the fasting guidelines cannot be followed, please notify your Sonographer before the exam gets underway.

Your entire stay for the exam is estimated at 1 hour, including advance arrival time.

About Ultrasound Gel

All Ultrasound exams use a warmed gel for patient comfort.

The gel acts as a coupling agent, so that the sound waves emitted from the transducer can be efficiently transmitted to and received from the body.

Once the imaging is complete, the gel will be wiped off your skin. The water-soluble gel does not stain fabrics or skin. Also, because it is hypoallergenic, its use carries no risk of allergic reaction.