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Ultrasound |
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 | Ultrasound, also called sonography, uses low energy sound waves to create a picture of the inside of the body and does not use x-rays or radiation. Ultrasound images are captured in real time. Ultrasound is used to view the fetus in expectant mothers and is also used to show the structure and movement of the body's internal organs, as well as blood flowing through the vessels. |
Other Ultrasound Exams and Procedures Before Making Your Appointment
Let the scheduler know about any of the following: - A previous ultrasound of this same area
- Pelvic surgery
- Pregnancy – known or possible
- Your last menstrual period start date
- Medication you are taking
Patient Preparation
You must have with you: - Previous x-rays if requested by your doctor's office
- Your appointment form
- Complete insurance information including your insurance card
Be sure to wear comfortable clothes. You may be asked to change into a gown for the exam.
For a pelvic/OB ultrasound:
- Drink 24 oz. water one hour before the procedure and do not urinate until after the exam.
For a kidney ultrasound: - Drink 12 oz. water 30 minutes before the procedure and do not urinate until after the exam.
For an abdominal ultrasound (liver, gall bladder, pancreas, aorta): - Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.
For other ultrasounds (vascular, thyroid, etc.): - You have no restrictions on eating or drinking.
Patient Experience
An imaging procedure typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the type of information requested by your healthcare provider. You will be positioned comfortably on a cushioned exam table. For the best quality images, you need to be as still as possible during the exam. Just relax and breathe normally.
To capture the images, the highly-skilled technologist will be moving a wand called a transducer over your skin. For good contact, a small amount of warm gel is spread on your skin in the area to be imaged. When the exam is over, the gel will be wiped from your skin and the technologist will assist you from the table and out of the room.
After Your Exam
Your ound images will be interpreted by a board certified radiologist specializing in ultrasound imaging. The findings will be sent to your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will contact you to discuss the results.
Ultrasound is available at: Blaine, Coon Rapids, Maple Grove, Southdale and Burnsville |
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