Ultrasound
Ultrasound is an imaging modality that visualizes internal structures by recording the pulsating "echoes" of harmless and painless sound waves that are directed to a specific area of the body. These high frequency sound waves are transmitted through a transducer, which is a device that converts them into electrical impulses. A computer converts the electrical impulses into images that are displayed onto a monitor and recorded so that a radiologist can view them and interpret the results.
What to Expect
The transducer will be coated with a colorless gel to help it glide over your skin. The transducer is moved to various positions on the area of your body being studied so that different views can be obtained. You will feel slight pressure while the transducer is glided over your skin.
Preparing for your Exam
Abdomen / Aorta / Gallbladder / Abdominal Doppler
No eating or drinking after midnight the night prior to your exam.
OB / Pelvis
Drink 32 oz. of water 1 hour prior to exam and hold.
Renal
No eating or drinking after midnight. Drink 16 oz. of water 1 hour prior to exam and hold.
Renal Doppler
Nothing to eat or drink after midnight. Drink 32 oz. of water prior to exam.