Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a medical imaging technique that uses high frequency sound waves and their echoes to create visual images of internal anatomical structures. Similar to echolocation used by bats, dolphins, and whales, ultrasound sends sound waves into the body and receives information about internal structures based on the intensity and frequency of returned vibrations.

 

 

Ultrasound is typically a painless medical test that helps your doctor to diagnose and treat certain medical conditions.

Unlike X-rays, which use radiation, ultrasound exams uses reflected sound waves to examine areas of the body. Because there is no radiation exposure, ultrasound is the preferred imaging technique for pregnant mothers and their unborn infants.

 

 

Ultrasound is excellent for evaluating many, specific areas of the body and is especially effective for examining body cavities like the abdomen. The ultrasound scanner consists of a console which contains a computer, video display screen and a small hand-held device called a transducer that is used to create the image. The transducer sends out a sound wave and then listens for the echo or return wave. Images are immediately visible on the video display screen.

 

Our imaging centers offer several types of ultrasound exams including: abdominal, pelvic, transvaginal, scrotum, thyroid and musculoskeletal. Vascular ultrasound exams include abdominal and peripheral venous and arterial studies.

 

No known risks or harmful side effects are posed to humans from ultrasound examinations.

 

 

Preparation for your ultrasound exam is determined by the part of your body to be examined.

You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your ultrasound exam.

For abdominal, aorta, kidneys, liver, gallbladder, spleen and pancreas ultrasound exams – Do not eat or drink for at least 8 hours prior to your exam. This includes mints and chewing gum. During this 8 hour period you may continue to take regular medications but only with small sips of water.

For pediatric ultrasound exams – Fasting time is dependent upon the child’s age. Consult your doctor for additional information.

For pelvic ultrasound exams – Empty your bladder approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours prior to your exam, and then drink 32 ounces of liquid of your choice. Your bladder should be full for the exam. Do not empty your bladder again until the exam has been completed. You may continue to take regular medications.

 

Results are available within 24 – 48 hours.

 

 

Once the exam is complete, a physician will review the study and dictate a report. This report will be sent to the doctor who ordered your study. We recommend that you call and schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss the results.

 

 

Typically, the healthcare provider calls, faxes or submits an online request for the ultrasound exam. Then we call you to confirm your appointment date and time. However, if your healthcare provider asks you to schedule your exam, simply call us.  We will make sure the exam is timely and convenient and that it meets any special requirements of your insurance carrier and healthcare provider.

When you call, we will need to know which exam your healthcare provider ordered and why. We will also ask you for your insurance information. You will need to pay any co-pay or deductible at the time of the exam. We conveniently file your claim with your insurance provider.