Frequently Asked Questions

What is ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a simple, safe, painless diagnostic procedure that bounces high-frequency sound waves off parts of the body and captures the returning “echoes” as images.

What areas are examined?
Glendale MRI Institute features a state-of-the a-art ultrasound imaging unit, in which high-resolution scanning can be performed, not only of the abdominal and pelvic organs, but also of the vascular and musculoskeletal systems.

What can you expect?
When you arrive a Glendale MRI Institute, the receptionist will help you with your paperwork and show you where to leave your personal belongings during the exam.
When it’s time for your exam, the technologist will take you into the comfortable ultrasound suite.

Is the exam safe?
Ultrasound is extremely safe. There is no injection of radiation exposure involved.

How do you prepare for your exam?
Please note the specific study your doctor has ordered and follow the appropriate instructions.

Abdomen: No food or water 6-8 hours prior to exam.

Aorta: No food 6-8 hours prior to exam.

Breast: No preparation required.

Carotid Bilateral: No preparation required.

Doppler: No preparation required.
(Venous/Arterial)

OB, under: Drink 32 oz. Of water 1 hour prior to exam. Do not use the bathroom.
15 weeks

Pelvic: Drink 32 oz. Of water 1 hour prior to exam. Do not use the bathroom.

Renal: No food 4 hours prior to exam. Drink 32 oz. of water 1 hour prior to exam. Do not use the bathroom.

Scrotum: No preparation required.

Soft tissue: No preparation required.
(Head, Neck, Thyroid)

Thyroid: No preparation required.

Trans-vaginal: No preparation required.

How long will the exam take?
Your entire ultrasound exam will take from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the type of study your doctor has ordered.

When will you know the results?
Once your exam is complete, a board-certified radiologist at Glendale MRI Institute will look at the images. The radiologist will interpret the scans and will send your doctor a written report within 24 to 48 hours.

If you have any additional questions, please talk to your doctor.