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Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to examine
various organs and tissues in the body. Ultrasound is a safe
and painless examination. It is used to detect diseased or
damaged tissues, locate abnormal growths and identify a wide
variety of changing conditions.
Ultrasound is used during pregnancy to check a baby's
health and development. It provides information on the size
and growth rate of the baby. It can also detect multiple
babies, certain birth defects and other conditions that could
lead to problems during pregnancy or delivery. Parents are
given a picture of the baby at the end of the exam. In
accordance with standards set by the American Registry of
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, videotaping is not provided.
The examination is performed by a trained technologist who
works under the direct supervision of a Radiologist.
Preparing for an ultrasound exam
All ultrasound exams of the abdomen require you to have
nothing to eat or drink for 4 to 6 hours prior to the exam.
Pelvic ultrasounds require you to drink four eight-ounce
glasses of water one-half hour prior to the exam and not void
until after the exam. Ultrasound exams of the arms, legs and
neck require no special preparation.
Exam Day:
Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete the
registration process.
The technologist will escort you to the dressing room,
where you will change into a patient gown.
Once inside the exam room, the technologist will explain
the exam and answer any questions.
The begin the exam, you will be asked to lie down on the
table while the technologist applies a small amount of gel to
the area that is to be scanned.
The technologist will use a transducer, moving it across
the area to be examined while applying mild pressure.
The exam will take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour to
complete.
After the exam, the technologist will assist you off the
table and you will be free to change and leave.
Results of the exam will be forwarded to your physician.
Your physician will explain the results.
Note: Some exams (i.e., pelvic and prostate ultrasounds)
require additional procedures to be performed. The
technologist will explained these procedures prior to the
exam.
Davis County Hospital Radiology
641-664-2145, extension 2551
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