We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
What are the clinicians looking at?
An abdominal ultrasound looks primarily at the abdominal organs such as gall bladder, liver, bile ducts, kidneys, pancreas and spleen. Major blood vessels can also be examined such as the aorta (major artery that transports oxygen rich blood to the rest of the body) and the inferior vena cava (major vein that returns oxygen deficient blood from the lower body to the heart for oxygenation). The retroperitoneum can also be seen, which is the space between your abdomen and spine which house structures that are part of several body systems.
What is the Prep?
For this exam you are asked to not eat any solid food or drink anything for 8 hours before your appointment. Medication can be taken with a small amount of water. If you are a diabetic, please let the receptionist know at the time of booking your appointment so meals can be discussed. The exam lasts for approximately 30 minutes
What will the sonographer do?
For this exam, you will be asked to lie down on a table with your abdomen uncovered. An odourless and water-soluble gel will be put on your skin by the sonographer. This gel helps to transmit the sound waves and allows easy movement of probe or transducer over the skin. As the probe glides, pictures are taken of the abdominal organs. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time. This will prevent the picture from getting blurred out by the movement of breathing. The sonographer will leave the room once all images are complete. You will be directed to a change room after which you will be free to leave.
Who can order a diagnostic exam?
A physician, registered nurse practitioner in the extended class, dentist, chiropractor, designated chiropodist or an osteopath can order an x-ray or ultrasound. A registered nurse may complete the order implementing a medical directive. In this case, the RN completes the requisition form, includes his or her signature, the name of the physician responsible for the care of the patient and reference to the specific medical directive.
Can I refuse an ultrasound examination?
Yes. If you do, please inform the physician who has ordered the exam, as it may determine the course of your treatment.
When will I get the results?
If the exam is of an urgent nature, a verbal report will be called in right away. The final report is faxed to your doctor within 24-48 hours.
Why does StL Diagnostic Phone “Verbals” instead of just faxing the report?
At StL, “Verbals” mean your examination has been flagged in our system as urgent. It is our protocol to communicate significant medical findings (positive verbal) to the RN or physician who is managing your care. As soon as the images are interpreted by our radiologist, urgent medical results are entered into our reporting queue and a person from our team calls directly. This significantly improves the timing and quality of patient care. The radiology report is generated and faxed within 24 hours.