Sonogram Services

The Ballinger Memorial Hospital Radiology team provides Sonogram Services on the Ballinger Memorial Hospital campus on a scheduled routine basis and are interpreted by specialized Radiologists. Results are sent directly to your ordering provider.

Sonogram studies times vary by test. Sonograms or ultrasounds view your internal organs such as the liver, kidneys, or blood vessels.

What is a Sonogram Scan?

The sonogram machine, also known as an ultrasound machine, emits vibrations that enter your body and then echo back. These echoes create the ultrasound image. These vibrations are so gentle that they cannot be felt, and have no known harmful effects.

The sonogram exam is performed by a trained professional called a sonographer, who will apply a clear gel to the area to be pictured. The sonographer will then move a handheld wand, called a transducer, over the area to be scanned. You will feel pressure from the transducer, but ultrasound is usually painless. Certain exams require preparation, such as fasting or having a full bladder; your physician will advise you about the required preparation. During the exam, you may be asked to change positions or hold your breath.

What should I expect BEFORE my ultrasound exam?

You will receive specific instructions based on the type of ultrasound you are undergoing. In general, the following guidelines apply.

Food and drink: If you are having an abdominal ultrasound, you should have been instructed not to eat or drink anything 8 hours prior to your exam. Other ultrasound exams such as pelvic, thyroid, scrotal, and vascular studies do not require any preparation.

When to arrive: You should arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment time for registration.

What to wear: You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You may be asked to change into a gown.

What will I experience DURING my ultrasound exam?

Scanning: A sonographer, a health care professional specially trained in the use of ultrasound, will apply a gel to the skin over the area being examined. The gel maximizes contact between the transducer and the skin, thereby producing high quality images.The sonographer then passes the transducer over the targeted area and obtains the desired diagnostic data. Depending on the type of exam, you may have to lie still, change positions, or hold your breath.

What should I expect AFTER my ultrasound scan?

Instructions: You have no restrictions after having an ultrasound and can go about your normal activities.

Exam results: All scans are read by a radiologist specialty trained in ultrasound imaging. Quick results are essential not only for your peace-of-mind, but also for your physician to begin planning your treatment immediately, if necessary. After the scan has been read the results are sent to your physician, who will discuss them with you.