PreparationsMRI
There are no special preparations needed for an MRI. The exam lasts 30 to 60 minutes depending on the body part being scanned and is usually divided into 3 to 4 imaging segments. In some instances, a contrast agent (gadolinium) will be administered if requested by the referring physician. The patient may eat, drink, and take his/her medication prior to the exam. Patients are required to leave all coins, jewelry, keys, credit cards, hair pins, glasses, hearing aids, removable dental plates and any other metallic objects in a secured area. Absolutely NO MRI for patients with coclear implants, cardiac pacemakers or Brain Clips. If you have a history as a metal worker, you must be screened with an X-ray prior to your MRI. Please bring any prior films and reports and make them available to the radiologist for comparison and diagnosis.
CT-Scan
For a CT of the abdomen, pelvis and contrast studies require the patient not to eat 6 hours prior to the exam. The patient may be required to pick up an oral contrast agent two days prior to the scan. For all CT scans with intravenous contrast studies, patients over 40 years of age, patients currently receiving chemotherapy and patients with a history of nephrectomy must have bloodwork done with BUN and Creatinine levels tested. Most studies take about 10 to 15 minutes.
Ultrasound
For a Pelvic or Transvaginal Ultrasound, drink and hold in 32 ounces of water one hour before the appointment. For an Abdominal Ultrasound, do not eat or drink anything for 8 hours prior to the appointment. For Obstetrics or Bladder Ultrasounds, drink and hold 24 ounces of water one hour prior to the appointment. There are no specific preparation instructions for Breast, Renal, Carotid, Testicular, Thyroid, and Doppler exams.
Mammogram
Schedule your appointment time for shortly after menses. Please do not use any powders, cream or deodorant under you arm or around the breast area prior to your exam. Wear a comfortable two-piece
outfit. If possible, obtain and make available to the radiologist any prior mammogram studies. If you cannot obtain your previous mammograms or this is your first mammography, you must sign a waiver stating that you will allow your films to be read without comparison to any previous films.
DEXA Scan
If a patient is on calcium supplements, they cannot take calcium the day of the test.