Patient Prep

For abdominal studies (including Aorta Ultrasounds) patients should be fasting for 8-12 hours. This is especially important when it comes to the liver and gallbladder. Eating or drinking can cause misdiagnosis or inadequate imaging. It is usually best to schedule this exam in the early morning to decrease discomfort and ensure compliance.

Note: Never withhold medications! You may drink enough water to swallow tablets. If you are diabetic you may eat something light as need.  Please inform your tech what you ate, and when you ate, it to ensure accurate diagnosis. 

One hour prior to exam please drink at least 32 oz of water. In order to evaluate the bladder it must be full. Bladder imaging can be done first if needed, just inform your tech.

A full bladder is needed (32 oz of water 1 hour prior) to help visualized the structures posterior to the bladder such as the uterus and ovaries. If you are less than 14 weeks pregnant a full bladder maybe needed to see the small developing baby.

*Transvaginal Pelvic ultrasounds do not need a full bladder. 

Upper extremity: Wear a loose fitting tank top if possible.

Lower extremity: Wear loose fitting shorts if possible.

If your exam is not listed here there may be no prep involved. You can contact your ordering  physician for further instructions, or contact us.