FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1) What is Ultrasound and does it hurt?

Ultrasound is a painless non-invasive imaging using energy in the form of sound waves which are directed through the body by a transducer. The sound waves are then processed into an image that is displayed on a monitor. Ultrasound does not use radiation.

2) How will my ultrasound study be performed?

During the examination, gel is applied to the skin to assure adequate contact for the transducer. The transducer is then moved over the specific area to be studied.

3) Why is ultrasound used?

Ultrasound may be used to detect the presence of abdominal and pelvic masses or cysts, identify gallbladder or renal stones, and examine breasts, testes or thyroid glands. All internal organs can easily be identified and evaluated. Ultrasound may also be used to obtain information about your heart, veins or arteries.

Additionally, ultrasound may be used to evaluate a developing fetus within the uterus. Some of the most common reasons for a pregnancy sonogram include determining age, size and position of the fetus, position of the placenta, fetal motion and heartbeat, and some birth defects.

PATIENT PREPARATION

Abdominal Sonograms:

Nothing to eat or drink twelve (12) hours prior to your study. (Please call our office if you are diabetic or for any reason the twelve (12) hour fast is not possible.)

Pelvic Sonograms:

A full bladder is necessary for the exam. Finish drinking four (4) large glasses of water or another non-carbonated liquid one hour before your appointment. Do not empty bladder. Pregnancy Sonograms: Patients less than 10 weeks, no preparation is necessary. Pregnant patients 10-24 weeks must finish drinking 24 ounces of water or other non-carbonated liquid one hour prior to their exam. Patients must not empty their bladder. Pregnant patients who are 25 weeks or more must finish drinking 16 ounces 1 hour prior to their study and must not emptytheir bladder until the study is completed.