A Sonogram or an Ultrasound examination uses sound waves, not X-rays
to image tissues within your body. This test is done by a technologist
who is skilled in using Ultrasound equipment and a Radiologist
specialized in doing Sonograms and an expert in interpreting the final
results.
Preparing for your sonogram:
You will be asked to urinate two (2) hours before
your appointment.
One hour and fifteen minutes before your appointment,
you must drink three 8-ounce glasses of water. Be sure not to urinate
before your exam is complete.
For the sonogram to be successful you must have a full bladder (we know
that it will be uncomfortable). The full bladder allows the technologist
to record various images of the uterus, ovaries, fetus, etc.
Please arrive at the hospital 15 minutes before your
appointment time. Your exam usually will take less than an hour, but it
is wise to allow at least one hour for your visit.
By relaxing and following instructions, you will add
to the success of your examination. Remember, a Sonogram is painless!
The Ultrasound Exam
For your exam, you will be asked to remove your
clothing and wear a hospital gown.
You will lie on a stretcher and warm oil will be
applied to your abdomen.
The technologist will check to see if your bladder is
full. If not, additional glasses of water will be given to you and you
will be asked to wait until your bladder is full.
Various films and measurements will be taken of your
uterus, ovaries, fetus, etc. Images are displayed on a video screen and
photographed.
When the technologist has completed the initial exam,
you will be asked to wait while the films are developed and reviewed by
the Radiologist. The Radiologist may then come into the room and take a
few additional films.
As soon as the examination is complete, the bathroom
is only a few steps away!
Completion of the Sonogram
The results of your examination will be sent to your doctor and your films
will be kept on file at the hospital as part of your permanent record.
