WHAT IS ULTRASOUND?

Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce pictures of the body's organs, tissue, and vaxcular system.

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

• Gallbladder - Eat a non-fatty meal (no milk products) the evening before the examination. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight. If you mouth is very dry you may take small sips of water.
• Pancreas - same as gallbladder.
• Pelvis - Drin 32 ounces of warer about 30 minutes before the examination in order to have a partially filled bladder. No carbonated beverages are allowed the day of the examination.
• Kidneys, Liver, Spleen, Abdominal Aorta - Do not eat or drink anything after breakfast. No carbonated beverages the day of the examination. If you mouth is very dry you may take small sips of water.
• Vascular Studies - No preperation is required.

WHAT WILL I EXPERIENCE?

You will be asked to lie down on an exam table. Gel or liquid is then applied to the skin at the area being examined. A small microphone-like device is passed serveral times over the area being examined. The gel or liquid will be washed off and you can get dressed.