Ultrasound (Guided Breast Biospy, OB & General & Vascular Ultrasound/ Doppler)

Ultrasound scanning, often referred to as sonography, is a method that obtains images of internal body organs through the use of high frequency sound waves which are recorded and displayed as images on a monitor. Images are captured in real time and therefore show movement of internal tissue, body organs, blood flows, heart valve functions, and the condition of embryo and fetus in pregnant women.

Ultrasound is used to diagnose multiple body parts to identify palpable masses, fibroids, kidney stones, causes of uterine bleeding and other conditions.  The GRC Comprehensive Women’s Imaging Program also offers Breast Ultrasound to evaluate palpable findings or as an adjunct to mammography as well as Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsy, a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate suspicious masses within the breast detected via ultrasound.

Note: Ultrasound is non-invasive and involves no radiation.

Preparation for Ultrasound

Pregnancy or Pelvic Exam

Your bladder must be full for this examination or your examination will be delayed. Drink at least 32 ounces of water one hour prior to your exam (four 8-ounce glasses)
-You must eat prior to drinking.

• After drinking, please do NOT urinate until after your exam is completed. If you are very uncomfortable, please notify our staff when you arrive.
• Allow 45 - 50 minutes for the exam.
• If you are taking medication, you should continue to take it as prescribed.

Note: Pelvic and 1st trimester pregnancy examinations may require an internal ultrasound. If you have any questions, please contact your referring physician or the imaging center where the exam will be conducted.

Abdominal Examinations

The optimal preparation for an abdominal exam is to eat a low-fat meal the evening before your exam. Then do NOT eat or drink anything after midnight. However, if an emergency abdominal exam is necessary, you must not eat or drink at least 6-8 hours prior to the exam.

Kidney Exam

You can eat a light meal 3 hours prior to the exam. Then 30 minutes before the exam, you should drink 2 glasses (16 ounces) of water.

• You should not urinate until after the exam.
• Allow 45 - 60 minutes for any abdominal exam.

For pediatric patients, the preparations may differ, please call the imaging center where the exam will be conducted for instructions.

Breast Examinations

If you have had a previous mammogram and/or ultrasound, bring these films with you.

• No preparation is required.
• Allow 30 - 45 minutes for the examination.

Prostate Examinations

On the morning of your exam, perform a Fleet enema.

• Allow 30 - 45 minutes for the exam.

Arterial Examinations

No preparation is required.

• Allow 90 - 120 minutes of the examination.

Carotid Examinations

No preparation is required.

• Allow 60 - 70 minutes of the exam.

Venous Doppler Examinations

No preparation is required.

• Unilateral (one leg), allow 30 minutes for the exam.
• Bilateral (two legs) allow 60 minutes for the exam.

Back to Our Services Page