It’s important for our patients’ peace of mind to understand better what to expect during a radiology procedure or exam. Talking with our scheduling team and your referring physician is the best place to start, but here are some commonly asked questions before a radiology appointment:

How should I prepare for my exam?

Mammogram: Please do not wear any deodorant or talc underarms or around breasts.

Ultrasound Exams of the Abdomen and Gallbladder: Please do not eat or drink anything after midnight the evening before the study.

Pelvic Ultrasound: Please drink 32 ounces of water, starting 2 hours before the exam and finishing the 32 ounces within 45 minutes of starting to drink the water. Please do not urinate.

All Other Studies

No preparation is required unless otherwise instructed by your physician or at the time of scheduling your appointment.

Will I feel any pain during my exam?

Most diagnostic procedures are painless and non-invasive, and our radiologists and technologists are trained to make your experience as comfortable as possible. A mammogram involves breast tissue compression. If you have sensitive breasts, avoid scheduling the mammogram during the week before your period when breasts are most sensitive. Your technologist will listen and work with you to find a tolerable degree of compression.

Please ask your scheduler to explain any part of the procedure to you that concerns you.

How long will my exam take?

We can give you a better idea of how long it will take when you schedule your appointment. Most exams take less than an hour.

Will I be able to resume normal activities after my exam?

Depending on your exam, you may resume normal activities. Your radiologist or technologist will inform you if there are any restrictions that require additional recovery.

Can I go back to work the day of my exam?

In most cases, unless you have been given a sedative, you should be able to return to work after any exam.

What happens after my exam?

After your exam, our radiologists will share their finding with your referring provider who will review those with you usually within 48 hours.

Still have questions? Please give us a call at 910-295-4400.