Procedures
- General Ultrasounds
- Renal / Bladder
- Thyroid
- Soft Tissue
- Carotid Arteries
- Peripheral Arteries / Veins
- Scrotal
- Women's Imaging
- Breast
- Needle Breast Localization and Cyst Aspiration
- Breast Core Biopsy
- Pelvic
- Obstetric
Preparations for specific Ultrasound Procedures
Drink 4, 8 ounce glasses of water 1.5 hours before your
appointment and do not void until your exam is finished for the
following Ultrasound Procedures:
- Transabdominal
- Pelvic
- Obstetrics
Nothing to eat or drink after midnight prior to your exam
(unless advised otherwise) for the following Ultrasound
Procedures:
- Abdomen/Gall Bladder
- Renal
- Vascular Dopper
- Aortic, Renal
- Mesentreric
- Hepato - Portal
- Lower Extremity Arterial
- Bypass Graft Surveillance
No Preperation Necessary for the Following Ultrasound Procedures:
- Carotid / Vertebral
- Upper Extremity Arterial
-
Lower
Extremity Benous
- Hemodialysis Access Site
- Vein
Mapping
- Thyroid
- Scrotal
-
Breast
About Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging (also called Sonography) is a method of
obtaining diagnostic images from inside the human body through
the use of high-frequency sound waves. Ultrasound is used as a
diagnostic tool that can assist doctors in making
recommendations for further treatment.
What are some common uses of Ultrasound?
- Viewing an unborn fetus.
- Examining many of the body's internal organs, including
the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, bladder,
uterus, and ovaries.
- Enabling physicians to see blood flow.
- Guiding procedures such as needle biopsies.
- Imaging the breast and guiding biopsies of breast
abnormalities.
- Evaluating superficial structures, such as the thyroid
gland and scrotum (testicles).
- Lower extremity vascular ultrasound to evaluate for deep
vein thrombosis (DVT).
What should I expect during this exam?
After being positioned on the table, a clear gel will be applied
to the area under examination. This will help the transducer
make contact with the skin. The technologist will firmly press
the transducer against the skin and move it back and forth to
image the area.
After the examination is complete and the gel has been wiped
off, you may be asked to wait while the ultrasound images are
reviewed by the radiologist.
- Plain Films
- GI Fluoroscopy
- Esophagram/Barium Swallow
- Upper GI
- Small Bowel
- Barium Enema
- Hysterosalpingogram
What are some common uses of X-ray?
- X-ray assists doctors in the identification and treatment of
a broad range of conditions, including fractures, arthritis,
joint injuries, etc.
- Fluoroscopy, or real-time X-ray, allows the radiologist to
view the body as it functions, making it possible to detect
subtle abnormalities such as reflux or a hiatal hernia.
What should I expect during this exam?
Due to the high number of vastly different procedures performed at
MMI, experiences will vary.
- Each exam will be explained in full prior to the exam, and
you will be given the opportunity to ask questions.
- Every effort will be made to make you as comfortable as
possible.
- After the exam, you will be asked to wait until your images
are reviewed by the radiologist for quality control purposes.
What will I experience during an X-ray?
- If your exam requires you to lie on an X-ray table, it may
feel cold, and you may experience some discomfort due to the
hard surface. Depending on your exam, the technologist may be
able to place a pad on the table for your comfort.
- When X-raying an injury, the technologist may require you to
hold an uncomfortable position for a few seconds. Any movement
could result in the need for additional imaging.
How do I prepare for my Fluoroscopy?
- UGI: Nothing to eat or drink 8 hours prior to exam
- Lower GI/ barium enema: Patient must pick up evac kit and
instructions from MMI
- Barium swallow: No preperation necessary
Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) is a tool used for measureing bone
density. DEXA calculates Bone Mineral Density (BMD), a measurement used to
estimate bone strength and the likelihood of breakage and/or fracture
Some common uses of this exam are:
- Aiding physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of
osteoporosis.
- Assessing an individual's risk for developing fractures.
Emphasis is placed on the spine and hips, which are
weight-bearing areas that are more susceptible to fractures.
During this exam you should expect the following:
- You will not have to change into a gown for this test if you
wear loose, comfortable clothing without zippers or metal buttons.
- You will be asked to lie on a padded table and hold very
still for approximately five minutes.
MMI technologists are experienced in high quality patient care.
Communication with your technologist is vital in insuring your comfort, as
well as the attainment of quality diagnostic images.