Ultrasound

An ultrasound study is a safe, non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to visualize your internal organs or blood vessels. The ultrasound images are displayed on a monitor, allowing the physician to evaluate the anatomy of your aorta, liver, pancreas, stomach or spleen, as well as other organs and blood vessels.

Eating prior to the exam

Depending on the body part being examined, patients may be asked to fast for four to six hours prior to the study. However, this restriction is not always necessary. Ask your physician or the Ultrasound Department about any restrictions at the time your exam is ordered or scheduled.

The ultrasound procedure

Typically, the ultrasound study is performed while you are lying down on an examination table. Gel is placed on your skin while a physician or sonographer uses an ultrasound transducer to scan over the area of interest. The procedure time varies and may take up to one hour. You may be asked to drink an oral "contrast" material to aid in the visualization of certain anatomy.

Common ultrasound exams

The following is a partial list of the many ultrasound exams performed in the Ultrasound Department.

• Abdominal
• Gallbladder
• Kidney
• Liver
• Neonatal
• Obstetric
• Pancreas
• Pelvis
• Thyroid
• Vascular (blood vessels)

For more information

For more information, call (217) 544-6464, extension 44785 or 55606.