Ultrasound uses a probe to send high frequency sound waves into your body, then reads the echoes that return. Sophisticated software then displays an image of the body’s interior.

Patient Preps for Ultrasound Procedures

Patients scheduled for gallbladder ultrasounds or abdominal ultrasounds should not eat or drink anything for 6 hours prior to the exam.

Patients scheduled for renal ultrasounds should not have anything to eat for at least 6 hours prior to the exam. It is good to drink water before the procedure so you will be well hydrated.

Patients scheduled for OB ultrasounds should drink 60oz of fluid 90 minutes prior to the exam. Do not empty your bladder until the exam is completed. NOTE: Patients over 30 week’s gestation do not need to drink the fluid.

Patients scheduled for pelvic ultrasounds should drink 60oz of fluid 90 minutes prior to the exam. Don’t empty your bladder until the exam is completed.

Patients scheduled for an abdomen and pelvic ultrasound need to be fasting for at least 6 hours prior to the exam. Food is withheld but patients do need to drink the required 60 oz of water prior to the exam.