What is it? Ultrasound, also called sonography, uses sound waves to develop ultrasound images of what’s going on inside the body. It helps to detect certain diseases/conditions earlier than is possible with other methods. Ultrasound is considered safe because it DOES NOT involve the use of x-rays and can provide information without the risk of surgery. How is the ultrasound performed? A transducer (hand held transmitter / receiver) is placed against the body and is slowly passed over the area to be examined. Sound waves pass through the skin into the body, striking various organs. Echoes of these sound waves are picked up by the receiver and create an image on a computer screen. Photographs are taken of the images and kept in your medical record. Neither the transducer or the procedure itself cause discomfort. Who will do the ultrasound? A registered diagnostic medical sonographer will perform the study in the radiology (x-ray) department and will share the images with the radiologist. The radiologist will write a report which will be sent to your provider. Please ask your provider about your results. Your provider may request that you consult with them after the ultrasound and before you leave the hospital. Where will it be done? The exam will be performed in the radiology (x-ray) department. As the exam may take 45-60 minutes, we kindly ask that you do not bring children to your appointment. Please make arrangements for child care in advance, as our staff cannot be available or responsible for supervising children. What preparations are necessary? Abdominal Ultrasound (gallbladder, kidney, etc.) Nothing to eat or drink after midnight the night before or the morning of the ultrasound Obstetric ultrasound 1-3 months pregnant: full bladder 3-9 months pregnant: no special preparation Pelvic Ultrasound Full bladder. If you have to go to the bathroom the morning of the exam, drink at least 4 glasses of liquid before coming for the ultrasound. If you have any questions concerning your exam, please contact the Radiology Department at 712-546-3394. Download this page as a printable PDF