Ultrasound

What is Ultrasound?

Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, utilizes high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Ultrasound exams do not use ionizing radiation (X-ray). Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show the structure and movement of the body's internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels.

For more information about Ultrasound, please click here.

What do I need to do to prepare for my exam at Hoag?

Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled exam time. Please refer to the specific instructions for your exam as noted below. Any specific prep instructions for your exam are also noted below.

Please dress in loose, comfortable two-piece clothing. No belts, buttons or zippers.

Please call 800/309-XRAY (9729) for any additional questions or concerns.

What should I bring with me when I arrive at Hoag?

Many insurance providers require prior authorization. Please verify with your ordering physician that, if required, an authorization has been obtained, to avoid any unexpected costs, delays or cancellations.

Bring your physician's written order, insurance card and proof of pre-authorization (if applicable) with you to your appointment.

Please bring a current list of your medications, including herbal and vitamin supplements, as well as the current dose of these medications. If possible, click on PATIENT HOME MEDICATION LIST, print and complete this document prior to coming in for your scheduled appointment.

Also, please bring any prior exams pertaining to your procedure that were not done at a Hoag or Newport Imaging facility.

Please refer to instructions below depending upon the type of procedure.

Ultrasound Procedures Specific Information

To find out more about your imaging study and what to expect, click on any of the procedures listed below. You will be directed to RadiologyInfo™, a public information Website established by the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).

Preparation includes: Nothing to eat or drink 8 hours prior to exam. Clear liquids okay.

If you are less than 14 weeks gestation, please empty bladder and drink 32 oz of fluid one hour before exam. Do not empty bladder until instructed. If you are greater than 14 weeks gestation, you do not need to drink water.

Empty bladder and then drink 32 oz of water one hour before your pelvic ultrasound exam. Do not empty bladder until instructed to do so.

Print and complete the HYSTEROSONOGRAPHY AUTHORIZATION form prior to coming in for your appointment.

If you have not had a prior Pelvic ultrasound within the last 6 months, empty bladder and then drink 32 oz of water one hour before your pelvic ultrasound exam. Do not empty bladder until instructed to do so.

Purchase a Fleets enema (4.5 oz green box) and complete enema 2 hours prior to exam time.

No dietary preparation is required unless specified during scheduling. Please follow any instructions given by your ordering doctor or our nurses. A driver is not needed to drive you home.

Please arrive 1 1/2 hours prior to procedure time. For thyroid biopsies, patients may eat before the procedure. Additionally, thyroid biopsy patients are not monitored and may drive themselves home.

For all other ultrasound-guided biopsy procedures, preparation includes: Nothing to eat or drink after midnight or 6 hours prior to your procedure except necessary medication with just enough water to swallow medication. You will be monitored for 4-6 hours after the procedure. You will need a driver to take you home.