Ultrasound

What is an ultrasound?

An Ultrasound examination, also called a sonogram, uses safe, low frequency sound waves similar to sonar to produce images of the inside of the body. Ultrasound can provide valuable diagnostic information to your physician for many internal organs, parts of the vascular system and pregnancy.

How is this test done?

The examination is completely painless. A registered ultrasound technologist, also called a sonographer, will perform the procedure. After you lie down on an examination table, warm gel will be applied to the skin over the area of the body part to be imaged. The technologist will then use a device about the size of the palm of your hand called a transducer and slide it across the skin. You will not be able to feel or hear the sound waves. The technologist will view the images on a monitor during the procedure and specific areas will be recorded.

How are the images uses?

Following the ultrasound examination, the images are transmitted to a radiologist for interpretation. A written report is issued from the radiologist to your physician shortly after your procedure. Your physician will contact you with the results of your ultrasound examination.

How long will the test take?

Obstetric ultrasound 1st Trimester: approximately 30 minutes.
Obstetric ultrasound 2nd & 3rd Trimester: approximately 45 to 60 minutes.
Pelvic ultrasound: approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
Other ultrasound examinations: approximately 30 minutes.

What else do I need to know?

Due to the preparation and time allotments needed for ultrasound procedures, you must contact the ultrasound department to schedule your test. The scheduler will not only schedule your examination, but also tell you if any preparation is needed.

What are the preparations for each test?

Preparation for an ultrasound depends on the area to be imaged. Below, please find the type of test that your physician has ordered to find what preparation is needed.

• Pelvic, Transabdominal: FINISH drinking 32 oz (1 quart) of water one hour BEFORE exam time. DO NOT URINATE after drinking the water, your bladder must be full to have the exam done.
• Pelvic, Transvaginal only: No special preparation needed.
• Pregnancy up to 34 weeks: FINISH drinking 32 oz (1 quart) of water one hour BEFORE exam time. DO NOT URINATE after drinking the water, your bladder must be full to have the exam done.
• Pregnancy after 34 weeks: No special preparation needed.
• Echocardiography or Doppler: No special preparation needed.
• Biophysical Profile: Unless you are on a special diet, EAT a high carbohydrate meal one hour prior to exam time.
• Sonohysterogram: No special preparation needed. For women 45 and under, please schedule your ultrasound between day 6 and day 12 of your menstrual cycle, prior to ovulation.
• Upper Abdomen (Gallbladder, Liver, Pancreas): Eat a fat-free meal the evening prior to the exam and nothing to eat or drink after midnight prior to the exam.
• Aorta: Nothing to eat or drink after midnight prior to the exam.
• Kidneys: No special preparation needed. Stay hydrated.
• Spleen: No special preparation needed.
• Thyroid: No special preparation needed.
• Scrotum/Testicles: No special preparation needed.

If you would like to learn more about ultrasound imaging, or schedule an appointment,
please call 219-922-3009.