In most cases, ultrasound examinations do not require preparation. Some specific ultrasound examinations require preparation to improve the diagnostic efficacy and ensure that we are able to visualize the anatomy of interest. The following examinations require preparation as indicated:
- Abdominal Examinations: Nothing to eat or drink 6 hours prior to the examination.
- Aorta/IVC/Renal Artery: Nothing to eat or drink 6 hours prior to the examination.
- Renal/Kidney and/or Bladder: Nothing to eat for 6 hours. Drink 32 ounces of water one hour prior to the examination. Please do NOT empty your bladder. These examinations require a full bladder for diagnosis.
- *OB Ultrasound (Pregnancy): Drink 16 ounces of water one hour before your examination. Please do NOT empty your bladder. These examinations require a full bladder for diagnosis.
*Note that The Radiology Clinic only performs first trimester OB ultrasounds. We recommend second and third trimester examinations be performed at a high-risk OB center.
