Ultrasound

What is an ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging modality based on transmitting ultra high frequency sound waves into the body and then receiving the returning echoes. Since its development over 50 years ago, Ultrasound has become an indispensable diagnostic imaging tool used for delivery of patient care. Our Ultrasound Department, which is fully accredited by the American College of Radiology, performs thousands of ultrasound exams each year. Over 60% of pregnant women in the United States receive obstetrical ultrasound. This exam allows for appropriate obstetrical management. In addition to obstetrical ultrasound exams, studies can include thyroid, gallbladder, abdominal, aortic, kidney, pelvic and vascular studies

Preparing for Ultrasound
Preparing for an Ultrasound depends on the type of exam the patient is having

ABDOMEN includes: GALLBLADDER, LIVER, PANCREAS, SPLEEN, BILLIARY, BILE DUCTS AND RIGHT UPPER QUADRANT: Nothing
by mouth 8 hours prior to exams. If it is necessary to take
medication before exam a very small amount of water is fine.

AORTA: Nothing by mouth 4 hours prior to the exam

KIDNEYS OR RENALS: No food 4 hours prior to exam. Drink 20 oz of fluid 1 hour prior to exam

PELVIS: 32 oz of fluid 90 minutes prior to exam.

OBSTETRIC: UP TO 25 WKS 32 oz of fluid 90 min. prior to exam

OBSTETRIC: Over 25 weeks no prep unless reason is for placenta location.

ALL OTHER EXAMS includes: BREAST, CAROTID, VENOUS, SCROTUM AND
SOFT TISSUE , No prep

During an Ultrasound
The patient will lie on a comfortable table while a Technologist performs the exam. A handheld device, called an ultrasound probe or transducer, will be moved on the surface of the skin in the area of interest after a liquid gel is placed on the probe and/or the skin. For certain ultrasound exams, specialized internal probes are used.

After an Ultrasound
The patient can eat and resume normal activity. A Radiologist will interpret the ultrasound exam and send the results to the patient's physician.

Example 3D Images
3D images typically are not obtainable until the 25th week of the pregnancy

Click the images below to enlarge