Simply put, it is a medical procedure utilizing soundwaves and computer electronics to produce images of the major organs and blood vessels of the body.  The procedure is typically performed by a trained technologist under a Radiologist's (doctor) supervision.

 

 

Ultrasound has been in use for many years and no known risks or adverse effects to your health have been found.  Your doctor, the Radiologist and/or the technologist can answer any questions you may have about the procedure. 

 

 

Diagnostic levels or intensities of soundwaves are painless.  You cannot feel the soundwaves as they travel through the body and back to the machine.  There are some procedures or exams that can be slightly uncomfortable, such as biopsies, exams of the prostate and transvaginal ultrasound; however, these are well tolerated by most individuals. 

 

 

In general, a sonographer will instruct you to lie face up on an examination table.  The area to be examined will be made free of any clothing or jewelry.  Ultrasound gel will be applied to the area to prevent air from getting between the ultrasound source and your skin.  A small probe, called a transducer, will be passed over the surface to be scanned, producing a sensation of light pressure on your skin.  The technologist will take several pictures representing what he/she observes.  Occasionally, you may be asked to turn on your side or lie on your stomach.  You will also need to lie very still and may be asked to hold your breath.  When the test is complete, you may be asked to wait while the technologist develops and reviews your pictures with a Radiologist (a doctor who specializes in interpreting diagnostic images) for approval.  Occasionally, the Radiologist may request additional images or do some of the pictures personally, which may aid him/her in the imterpretation. 

 

Most ultrasound tests last approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Am I supposed to eat before having an ultrasound test?

 

Depending on the type of ultrasound test your doctor has requested, you may be required not to eat or drink anything for 4 to 6 hours prior to the test.  For other tests, you may be asked to drink 3 to 4 glasses of water in order to fill your bladder.

 

Instructions to follow before reporting for specific tests

Gallbladder; Liver; Pancreas; Spleen; Aorta; Abdomen
(small sips of water are permitted)

Do not eat or drink 4 to 6 hours before your test.  If diabetic, consult your doctor.  You may take your morning medications with a small amount of water provided they won't interfere with any other test you may be scheduled for.
 
Pelvis, OB and/or Gestational Age; Bladder; Kidney & Bladder
Drink 3 to 4 glasses of water (approximately 16 to 24 ounces) and do not empty your bladder 1 hour before your test.
 
Kidneys only

Drink plenty of fluids but you do not need to keep from emptying your bladder.
 
Other tests

Most other ultrasound tests require no special instructions with the exception of Ultrasound-Guided biopsy of the prostate.  Those instructions will be given to you by the doctor performing the test or his staff.  

How long does it take to get the results?

Usually, a typed report is mailed to your doctor's office and received within 2 to 3 working days.  If your doctor feels the results are urgently needed, a preliminary or verbal report is given by the Radiologist to your doctor the same day.

 

* The technologist doing the test is not allowed to give results unless instructed to do so personally by your doctor