Ultrasounds or sonograms image organs using sound waves instead of radiation to see inside the body. A warm gel is put on the skin. A transducer placed on the skin sends and receives the images. These tests are usually not painful.

Abdomen
Abdominal ultrasound images of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, bile ducts, kidneys, spleen and aorta. When having this procedure done, patients must fast between six and eight hours prior to their appointment.

Obstetrical
Obstetrical ultrasound provide images of the pregnant uterus, including fetal anatomy, heart rate of fetus, placenta and amniotic fluid. When having this procedure done, patients need to have a full bladder, either by drinking water or by a catheter inserted into bladder.

Pelvic
Pelvic ultrasound provides images of the uterus and ovaries. When having this procedure done, patients need to have a full bladder, either by drinking water or by a catheter inserted into bladder.

Doppler Exams
Doppler ultrasound produce color images of arteries and veins in the neck, arms or legs. The Doppler can be noisy.

Thoracentesis / Paracentesis
The Radiologist inserts a catheter into a fluid pocket to drain fluid with guidance from an ultrasound technologist and nurse. A numbing medication is given first by the radiologist to make the procedure more comfortable. When having this procedure done, patients can have clear liquids only prior to the exam.

Biopsy Procedures
The radiologist inserts a needle into the area of concern for the biopsy. A numbing medication is given first by the radiologist to make the procedure more comfortable. When having this procedure done, patients can have clear liquids only prior to the exam.