Ultrasound Exams

What is a Sonogram?

A sonogram is an examination technique which uses high-frequency sound waves, known as ultrasound, to produce pictures of the area of interest.

The transducer is moved across the surface of the skin while the sound waves are painlessly sent to the area to be scanned.  A special jelly is used to maximize transmission of the sound.  Much like sonar, the sound waves bounce off the organs and are converted into pictures.

During the Exam

When you report for your exam, you may be asked to wear a gown.  This is done primarily to protect your clothes from the ultrasound gel which will be applied to the abdomen and pelvic area.

You will lie on an examining table next to the ultrasound scanner.  The machine may appear to be a complex piece of equipment, but you can be sure your technologist is a skilled and experienced professional who has been specially educated and trained in its use.

After the gel is applied to the skin of the abdomen, a hand-held instrument called a transducer will be guided slowly across your skin.  The technologist will keep a sharp eye on the corresponding images which appears on the ultrasound monitor.   Pictures may be taken periodically to allow further study.

After the  Exam

When the examination is over, you may be asked to remain on the examining table for a few minutes while the technologist reviews the ultrasonic pictures for clarity.   Occasionally, more images or a brief exam is ordered by the radiologist at that time.

Because the sonogram still needs to be interpreted by a radiologist, you will not receive the test results from the technologist.  Generally, the findings will be reported to your physician who will, in turn, pass the results on to you.

Pelvic/OB Sonogram

You will be asked to drink about a quart of water one hour prior to your examination. To ensure that your bladder is full, you will be asked not to urinate during this period.

If you arrive with a full bladder, the examination should take no longer than 20 minutes.  If you need to wait while you drink more water, it may be an hour or so before you are allowed to go home.

Though this is especially uncomfortable for pregnant women, a full bladder helps to enhance the ultrasonic image of the pelvic organs.

Prior to the exam, a technologist will check to be sure your bladder is full.  If it isn't, the test will be postponed while you drink more water.

At times, a special vaginal probe may be used which does not require a full bladder.   Your circumstances may dictate the use of one technique or both.

Abdominal/OB Sonogram
You must not have anything to eat or drink after midnight the day before your test. If you have eaten, your test will be rescheduled for another day.