UltrasoundImaging (Radiology) Procedures
What is the test?
Ultrasound is painless. It is used to examine internal organs and to help
diagnose various diseases of the heart and the circulatory system. Ultrasound
tests or sonograms use sound waves to examine parts of the body. The images are
created by sending and receiving high frequency sound waves into the body using
a special transducer. The images are constantly updated and, therefore, can be
used in evaluating moving structures. Sonograms are often used in pregnancy, and
to evaluate the gallbladder, kidneys, blood vessels, as well as many other parts
of the body. There is no radiation involved with ultrasound, and there are no
risks known to be associated with its use.
How do I prepare?
Please plan to arrive in Imaging Services 15 minutes before your scheduled
appointment. Preparation for an ultrasound test varies, depending on the area
being evaluated. If you wear loose clothing to the exam, you may not need to
change into a gown.
Return to top
● Abdomen, gallbladder, liver, aorta, pancreas, kidneys, spleen
ultrasounds
Nothing to eat or drink after midnight. Pills typically can be taken with
small sips of water. If you are diabetic, consult with your doctor about your
medication prior to the test.
Return to top
● Bladder, pelvic, and pregnancy ultrasounds
A full bladder is needed to view the pelvic structures, so stay well-hydrated
all day by drinking plenty of fluids. Then one hour prior to the test, finish
drinking 32 ounces of fluid. Do not urinate prior to the test.
Return to top
●Thyroid, testicular,, breast, and soft tissue ultrasound
No special preparation.
Return to top
● Transvaginal ultrasound
No special preparation. If you have a latex allergy, please alert your
technician.
What can I expect during the procedure?
An ultrasound exam takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the size and
health of the patient. The test is performed by a specially trained
technologist. The technologist begins by applying gel to the skin over the organ
to be examined; this facilitates the transmission of the sound waves. A
transducer (sound wave transmitter and receiver) is moved back and forth over
the area being studied, and internal images are recorded in the computer and
displayed on the video monitor in real time. Images are recorded on film.
After the test?
There are no after-effects from ultrasound.
How and when will I get my test results?
Typically, within 48 hours a written report of your test results will be sent
to your referring physician, who will review them with you. Additional time (3
to 5 days) may be required if we are comparing these test results to previous
findings from another hospital or health-care provider.
Where is this test performed?
Ultrasound is available at all three Imaging Services centers: Cayuga Medical
Center at 101 Dates Drive, off NYS Route 96 in Ithaca; Convenient Care Center in
Ithaca, Warren Road at Arrowwood Drive; and Convenient Care and Commons Imaging
Center in Cortland, Route 281 at Commons Avenue
Ultrasound studies are safe,
non-invasive imaging procedures using
sound waves, rather than radiation, to
examine body organs. 
