Abdominal Ultrasound

An abdominal ultrasound is a procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to show what is inside your abdomen. No radiation or x-rays are necessary.

An abdominal ultrasound is used to look for causes of abdominal discomfort, which may be related to problems in the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys or aorta (the large blood vessel coming from your heart). The exam can detect abnormalities of these organs including enlargements, cysts, tumors or stones.

Before your ultrasound, you should not eat or drink after midnight. You may take any medication you need with a small amount of water.

During your ultrasound exam, a registered sonographer will move a hand-held device over your skin. Pictures of your abdomen will appear on a video screen and several images and measurements will be recorded. You may be asked to hold your breath or move into different positions on the exam table. Your abdominal ultrasound will take approximately 30-45 minutes.

After your ultrasound is read by a radiologist, your physician will receive a report of the findings and discuss the result with you.

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. To help ensure quality and safety, we ask that you do not bring young children with you to your appointments, as children are not allowed to accompany you during Imaging procedures. Staff is unable to monitor your child in your absence.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your doctor or contact Imaging Services at (320) 255-5619.

Your appointment is on:

Date: ________________ Time: ________________ at the following location:

____ St. Cloud Hospital - please check in at Door A

____ CentraCare Health Plaza - please check in at Woodlands Entrance