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Ultrasound

HRMC’s 3-D and 4-D ultrasound equipment uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of systems and organs in the body. These images often provide vital information that is valuable in diagnosing and treating a variety of diseases and conditions.

For more information, please contact us or call (605) 353-6334.

What is an ultrasound?

Ultrasound, also called sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to create high-quality images of soft tissues and motion within the body. Ultrasound can detect aneurysms, blood clots, damaged heart tissue, abnormal growths, diseased tissue and, during pregnancy, a baby's size, weight, position and physical condition. Ultrasound is also used to diagnose muscle injuries and some joint problems.

There’s no X-ray radiation and the sound waves are harmless.

What are some common uses of Ultrasound?

HRMC provides a full range of ultrasound exams, from head to toe, including biopsy procedures, arterial and venous evaluation, pregnancy and diagnostic body scans.

How should I prepare for an Ultrasound?

The preparation for each ultrasound study depends on the area being examined.

Pelvic or OB

Female patients should drink four 8 oz. glasses of water one hour prior to the examination and should not urinate. The bladder must be full for the exam.

Abdomen and Kidneys

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your exam.

Gallbladder or Pancreas

The day before the exam, eat a "fat-free" dinner (lean meat, fresh vegetables, toast or bread with jelly and coffee or teas – no eggs, butter or fried or fatty foods). On the day of the exam, do not eat or drink anything until after the exam. Diabetic patients and others with special health considerations should call for instructions. If taking medications, please ask your healthcare provider if you should take prior to your test.

Musculoskeletal

This requires no special preparation.

Breast

These exams require no preparation and are generally done either to work out a mammographic abnormality or to evaluate a physical exam finding.

Thyroid

No preparation required.

Venous

No preparation required.

What should I expect during this exam?

Depending on the images needed, the ultrasound exam may take half an hour to an hour. However, very detailed exams may take longer.

An ultrasound is generally painless.
The technologist positions you on a table. Relax and remain as still as you can.
A conducting gel will be applied to the area of the body being examined. The gel may feel cool when applied.
A transducer will be moved across the area that is being examined to capture the images.

What will happen after the test?

You should be able to return to normal activities right away unless your healthcare provider has instructed you differently.
Your healthcare provider will contact you with your test results.