Ultrasound

Ultrasound is the use of high-frequency sound waves to create images from within the body. By using these sound waves, images can be obtained of a variety of internal organs and structures. Ultrasound is utilized in studies of the major organs, the heart, blood vessels, and of course, in obstetrics where the unborn fetus can be observed.  The ultrasound department is ACR-accredited in general, vascular, obstetric, and breast ultrasound.  All of our sonographers are RDMS registered.

Registration
Patients scheduled for an ultrasound exam are required to register in Admissions. Admissions is located through the covered entrance with an EMERGENCY sign on it. After turning into the Main Hospital Entrance, turn left at the first intersection and continue around the curve and park in the ER Parking/Admissions lot (on the right).

Preparation Prior to Procedure
No preparation is needed except for:
· Pelvic studies - Drink 48 ounces of water one hour and 30 minutes prior to the examination and do not urinate. The bladder must be full for the exam.
· Abdomen studies - Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your exam.
· Appendix studies - Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your exam. Your physician should perform blood work for a white-blood-cell count prior to the ultrasound procedure.
· OB (obstetric) studies - Patients that are more than 12 weeks into their pregnancy should not urinate for one hour prior to the exam.
· Gallbladder studies - Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your exam.

Length of Procedure
Generally 30 to 60 minutes

Post-exam Instructions
Resume normal activities unless your physician has instructed otherwise.

If you think you may be pregnant, please inform your physician or the technologist before your exam.

If you have a known contrast allergy, please contact your physician or the imaging location where you are having your exam as soon as possible.

Results of Exam
A radiologist will interpret your exam and a transcribed report will be sent to the ordering physician within 24 hours.

Requesting Films
If your physician requested you to bring your films to your next office visit, please mention this to the radiology office staff when you check in, and your films will be ready for you shortly after your exam.

If anytime after your exam you need to borrow your films, please call the radiology department at (423) 787-5100 or e-mail radiology@lmhcare.org at least 24 hours in advance, and your films will be ready for you to pick up.