Ultrasound Abdomen, Renal or Abdominal Aorta

An Abdominal, Renal or Abdominal Aorta Ultrasound is a test using sound waves to check the abdominal organs.

The Procedure:

Gel will be applied to your stomach area by the technologist. A small instrument will be moved across your skin. Silent sound waves pass through the body's organs, and echoes are shown as pictures on a screen and on film. Tissue, blood, bone, and fluid all produce different echoes.

Procedure time: 30 minutes - 1 hour

Inpatient and Outpatient Preparation Instructions:

1. Your supper the night before the test must be fat free. This may include any of the following: canned fruit, cooked vegetables without butter, "skinned" chicken, baked fish, Jell-O, coffee, tea, Kool-Aid, or water. Do not drink carbonated beverages (pop) or beer. Do not eat or drink any dairy products.
2. You may have sips of clear liquid (black coffee, tea, Kool-Aid, water) until midnight.
3. Do not eat or drink after midnight.
4. Avoid gum chewing, smoking, or excessive talking. This will help prevent extra gas from forming.
5. If on medications, you may take them with a small amount of water. 

For Your Information:

1. Do not bring jewelry or large amounts of money with you.
2. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
3. Relax and follow the directions given to you by the Medical Imaging staff.
4. You will be able to leave the x-ray department when the test is finished.
5. The Radiologist (x-ray doctor) will "read" the scan and give the results to your doctor in 2-3 days. Your doctor will talk to you about the results of this test. Feel free to ask the doctor any questions.

If you have any questions about getting ready for the test, please call 419-394-3335 ext. 3550 for assistance.