Ultrasound

Ultrasound scanning obtains real-time images of internal body organs through the use of high-frequency sound waves. Ultrasound can show movement of organs, blood flow and a fetus during pregnancy, and can also guide needle biopsy procedures. An ultrasound is non-invasive and involves no radiation.

At Lake Forest Hospital Diagnostic Imaging Centers, we perform a variety of ultrasounds, including:

• General Ultrasound
• OB/GYN Ultrasound
• Vascular/Doppler Ultrasound

How do I prepare for an Ultrasound?

Each type of ultrasound requires different pre-exam procedures.  Please read below to determine what your specific preparation needs are prior to your exam.

Abdominal Exam
The optimal preparation for an abdominal exam is to eat a low-fat meal the evening before your exam.  Then do not eat or drink anything after midnight.  However, if an emergency abdominal exam is necessary, you must not eat or drink at least 6-8 hours prior to the exam.  Please allow 30 minutes for the exam. 

Arterial Exam
No preparation is required.  Please allow 90-120 minutes for the exam.

Breast Exam
No preparation is required.  If you have had a previous mammogram and/or ultrasound, bring these films with you.  Please allow 30-45 minutes for the examination.

Carotid Exam
No preparation is required.  Please allow 60-70 minutes for the exam.

Kidney Exam
You can eat a light meal 3 hours prior to the exam.  Then, 30 minutes before the exam, you should drink 2 8oz. glasses of water.  You should not urinate until after the exam.  Please allow 45-60 minutes for the exam.

For pediatric patients, preparations may differ.  Please call our Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) department at (847) 535-6300 for instructions.

Pregnancy or Pelvic Exam
Your bladder must be full for this exam or it will be delayed.  Drink at least 32 ounces (4 8oz. glasses) of water 1 hour prior to your exam.  You must eat prior to drinking.

After drinking, please do not urinate until after your exam is complete.  If you are very uncomfortable, please notify our staff when you arrive.  If you are taking medication, you should continue to take it as prescribed.  Please allow 45-50 minutes for the exam.

Pelvic and 1st trimester pregnancy exams may require an internal ultrasound.  If you have any questions, please contact your physician or our Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) department at (847) 535-6300.

Prostate Exam
On the morning of your exam, perform a Fleet enema.  Please allow 30-45 minutes for the exam.

Venous Doppler Exam
No preparation is required.  For one leg (unilateral), please allow 30 minutes for the exam.  For two legs (bilateral), please allow 60 minutes for the exam.

For more information, please contact your physician or our main Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) office at (847) 535-6300.