Official Website of PENN Radiology

Patient Services

Patient Prep & Instruction Manual

Updated May 2006

Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Department of Radiology 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Scheduled Test: Abdominal Ultrasound

When:_____________

Date:_____________

Time:_____________

Where:	You will report to Radiology Reception (ground floor/Dulles Building). Look for signs to the Radiology Reception area where you are to check in.
Purpose:	This test provides a picture of soft tissue organs. Generally it is an exam that includes the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, bile ducts, spleen and a limited view of the kidneys. The scan is safe and painless; there is no radiation involved.
Preparation:	You may not have any carbonated drinks or foods containing fat at least 8 hours prior to the exam. Acceptable food items: juice, water, coffee or tea without cream, and Jello. Medications can be taken prior to the exam. If you take insulin, you must consult with your physician.
What to Expect:	The procedure usually takes approximately 45 minutes. Test times may vary due to specific physician requests. After you are in the ultrasound examination room, you will be asked to change into a gown and provide a brief history. You will then placed on a stretcher. In order to obtain quality images, we will need to place a water-based gel on your abdomen A plastic device called a transducer will be placed over the abdominal area and moved back and forth to obtain the images necessary to answer your physician’s questions.
After Care:	After the test, you may resume all normal activities. Your attending physician will discuss the results of your ultrasound examination with you. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact one of our technologists at (215) 663-3123.

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Last Updated:12/20/06 ALK