Advance Preparation
Getting ready, what to expect for your imaging procedure:
Following are general guidelines for preparing for your imaging procedure. If you have questions, please call us and we would be happy to assist you. Check with your physician as to whether you should stop any medications.CT scan - Abdomen or Pelvis - Preparation may be required. Please check with the facility where you are having your test for any specific instructions.MRI scan - We will ask about any metal in your body at time of scheduling. Remove any metal, jewelry, or hairpins prior to the scan. Specific preparation information will be given when your appointment is scheduled.Ultrasound - Gallbladder or Abdominal - Generally, you should have nothing by mouth for six hours before your appointment, including no chewing gum nor cigarette smoking.Ultrasound - Pelvis - Drink 32 ounces of fluid to fill your bladder. This should be completed one hour before the procedure. Do not empty your bladder until the procedure is complete.Ultrasound - Obstetric (Up to 25 weeks pregnant) - drink 16 ounces of water one hour before your appointment time. Do not empty your bladder until the exam is complete. For women who are 26 weeks pregnant or further along, no special preparation is necessary.Mammography - Do not use any powders, talcs, sprays or deodorants on breast or underarm area. Please try to obtain your previous mammogram films and reports. Bring them with you at the time of your appointment.DEXA (bone-density scan) - Do not take calcium supplements 24 hours before the scan. If you have had any X-rays using contrast such as barium or IV contrast, or any nuclear medicine studies, please wait one week before having a DEXA scan. If you have any of those tests scheduled for the same day as your DEXA scan, the DEXA must be performed first.Other information
- X-rays are available by walk-in.
- All other imaging procedures need to be scheduled in order to have proper preparation and instructions.
- For your safety, children may not accompany patients into procedures. If it is necessary to bring children to the appointment, please bring appropriate adult supervision.
- Could you be pregnant? Tell the staff, even if there is only a possibility. Most imaging procedures are not performed on pregnant women.
- If you have asthma, please bring your inhaler.
