What is an Ultrasound?

Ultrasound (US): US or a sonogram differs from Diagnostic Radiography in that it uses nonionizing , high frequency sound wave to generate an image of a particular tissue in the body. These reflections are produced by a device called a transducer, which is placed directly on the area of interest and occasionally within the patient. Sound waves are then created and either transmitted or reflected back to a transmitter. Reflections are from different soft tissue interfaces of solid and fluid filled structures. Major applications of US are obstetrical, abdominal, and Doppler imaging (variant used in heart and vascular diagnosis) A technologist will assist you on the exam table. During this time a gel will be applied to the body part that will be examined. The gel assists the sonographer with acquiring images needed for interpretation. The technologist's transducer will create a small amount of pressure over the body part being imaged. This is normal,so try to relax during the examination. The US images obtained will either be recorded onto a TV monitor or saved onto film, paper, or an archiving device.

Preparation For Ultrasound Examination:

• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time
• Wear something comfortable (Sweat suit) that does not have metal snaps, zippers, or buttons
• Please bring your insurance cards, photo ID, and other important personal information
• Nothing to eat or drink 8 hours prior to the appointment time for the following exams: Abdomen, Liver, Gallbladder, Retroperitoneal, Kidneys, Pancreas, Aorta
• For Pelvis exams: Drink 32-40 oz water one hour to appointment time. Please do not urinate.
• For Abdomen and Pelvis exams: Nothing to eat 8 hours prior to the exam. Drink 32-40 oz water one hour to appointment time. Please do not urinate
• Complete OB: Drink 32-40 oz water 30 minutes to appointment time. Please do not urinate
• Pregnant Patients: Patients in their first trimester ( less than 11 weeks) drink 32-40 oz water one hour to appointment time. Please do not urinate
• No prep required: Carotids, Lower Ext venous, Lower Ext arterial (patency for graft), Thyroid, Scrotal