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Ultrasound is a medical procedure that uses high frequency sound waves to image various body parts. Most people associate ultrasound with exams during pregnancy. Ultrasound may be used to detect many conditions, such as cancer, gallbladder disease and blood clots. Some invasive procedures are performed using ultrasound guidance, for example, guided biopsies and fluid and cyst aspirations.
To learn more about the diagnostic ultrasound services provided by Emory Crawford Long Radiology, please click on the links below:
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FAQ's about diagnostic ultrasound
Hours of operation:
Outpatients: Monday-Friday: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Inpatients: Monday-Friday: 7 a.m.-11 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m.-noon
A sonographer is on call to perform emergency examinations after 11 p.m.
Schedule an appointment:
To schedule an appointment, please call 404-686-XRAY (404-686-9729).
Services Abdominal Ultrasound
Thyroid Ultrasound
Pelvic Ultrasound
Scrotal Ultrasound
Sonohysterography Ultrasound
Prostate Ultrasound
Abdominal Ultrasound:
Abdominal organs: liver, spleen, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas and abdominal aorta are examined.
Prep: Nothing to eat or drink after midnight on the day of the exam. Length of exam is approximately 20-30 minutes.
Thyroid Ultrasound
The thyroid gland is examined with the patient lying on his or her back The length of the exam is approximately 10-15 minutes.
Prep: No preparation is required.
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Pelvic Ultrasound:
Uterus, ovaries and adjacent areas are imaged .The examination usually consists of two parts. First, the exam is performed with a full bladder. Next, an endovaginal ultrasound is performed after the patient has voided.
Prep: Drink 32-40 oz. of water one hour before the appointment time and arrive in the Ultrasound Department with a full bladder. This exam requires a full bladder to obtain optimal images. Length of exam 20-30 minutes.
For more information on pelvic ultrasounds, specifically related to women's health, visit the Women's Imaging page.
Renal Ultrasound:
Both kidneys and the bladder are imaged. No prep is required. The exam takes 15-20 minutes to perform.
Prep: No preparation is required.
Scrotal Ultrasound:
The testes and scrotum are imaged with the patient lying on his back on the ultrasound table. The exam should take 15-25 minutes to perform.
Prep: No preparation is required.
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Sonohysterography Ultrasound
This procedure is performed to examine the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium).The exam is performed by a Radiologist and Ultrasonographer. Sterile water is introduced through a small catheter placed through the cervix and into the endometrial cavity. Using ultrasound guidance, sterile water is injected and ultrasound images are obtained . The procedure takes 25-30 minutes and is performed with the bladder empty and the patient's feet in stirrups.
Prostate Ultrasound:
The prostate exam is most commonly performed by a Urologist in conjunction with an Ultrasound guided prostate biopsy. The exam is performed endorectally with the patient lying on his left side. This is usually a 25 minute procedure.
Prep: An examination of the prostate gland requires the patient to administer a water enema before arriving in the Ultrasound Department. This should be done approximately 2 hours before the scheduled appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I having this exam?
Because of the wide range of applications for a diagnostic ultrasound, the specific purpose can vary. Please ask your referring physician for the exact purpose of the exam.
How long will the exam take?
A diagnostic ultrasound takes approximately 45 minutes. You should, however, plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to your exam for registration.
Is this kind of exam going to hurt?
Endovaginal or transrectal ultrasounds may provide slight, temporary discomfort, however, all other ultrasound exams are completely painless.
What preparation is necessary for an ultrasound exam?
Your health care provider should discuss the preparation required for your particular exam. You may be given instructions to not consume any food or liquids after midnight on the day of your abdominal ultrasound examination. You may be asked to drink 32-40 oz. of water one hour before a pelvic ultrasound is performed. A full bladder is required for this procedure.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown, depending on the type of exam.
How and when will I receive my results?
You will need to contact your referring physician for your results. Critical results will be called to the referring physician immediately. Results that are not critical will be available in your physician?s office within 48/72 hours by fax or mail.
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