Nebraska Health Imaging

ULTRASOUND INTRODUCTION
An ultrasound is a safe, painless diagnostic procedure that uses very high-frequency sound waves to produce a remarkably clear image of the internal structure of your body. Ultrasound exams are typically quicker and less expensive than CT scans, and because they do not involve the use of x-rays, they are completely safe to use even on pregnant women. Your physician will determine the most appropriate diagnostic test given your individual situation.

During your ultrasound examination, you will lie on a table while the sonographer applies gel to the specific area being examined. A probe is then gently rolled over your lubricated skin. The real-time image created is viewed on a nearby monitor.

Still frame photos and/or live images are recorded during the procedure. The exam usually takes from 15 to 45 minutes..

Fetal ultrasound: Fetal ultrasound is used to evaluate the age of a fetus as well as assess its growth during pregnancy. Ultrasound is also used to screen for any anatomic abnormalities. Baby pictures will be provided to patients following the examination. When appropriate, 3D and Live 4D images can be obtained during a fetal ultrasound exam based on the development of your baby.

Abdominal ultrasound: Used to assess the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, and spleen. Ultrasound is often ordered to look for gallstones.

Pelvic ultrasound: In women, pelvic ultrasound can evaluate the uterus and ovaries. Frequently, an endovaginal study is performed in which a special transducer with a cover is inserted into the vagina by the patient. This exam is performed in conjunction with a pelvic ultrasound to provide very high resolution images of the uterus and ovaries.

Thyroid ultrasound: Assesses the size of the thyroid gland and looks for any abnormalities of the thyroid and surrounding areas.

Vascular ultrasound: Used to assess arteries and veins. Doppler and color flow ultrasound are used in addition to standard ultrasound imaging. Ultrasound is used to evaluate for blood clots, most commonly found in the leg veins. Carotid artery ultrasound imaging may be performed to evaluate for narrowing of these arteries. Ultrasound can also be used to evaluate the blood vessels in the abdomen.

Breast ultrasound: Ultrasound of the breast is usually used to further evaluate an abnormality found in a another study (usually a mammogram). Patients under the age of 30 may have an ultrasound to evaluate an abnormality found upon examination. Your physician will determine the most appropriate diagnostic test given your individual situation.

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EXAM PREPARATION
Different exams require very different preparations. Please refer to the list below and follow the instructions closely as the preparation can affect the results of your exam. Failure to do so may cause a delay and possibly require rescheduling your exam. If you do not find your exam listed below or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact Nebraska Health Imaging prior to your exam.

Fetal Ultrasound: Full bladder. Drink 32-48 ounces of water 1-1 1/2 hours prior to your examination. Do not empty your bladder.

Abdominal Ultrasound: Nothing to eat or drink after midnight the night prior to your exam. If you need to take medication, go ahead and take it with as little as water as possible.

Pelvic Ultrasound: Full bladder. Drink 32-48 ounces of water 1-1 1/2 hours prior to your examination. Do not empty your bladder.

Thyroid Ultrasound: No preparation necessary. You may choose to wear a button down shirt or a low neck shirt so you do not have to change your clothes.

Vascular Ultrasound: No preparation necessary.

Breast Ultrasound: No preparation necessary.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why do I have to have a full bladder for a pelvic or fetal ultrasound?
A distended bladder acts as a "window" through which the sound waves travel and allows the sonographer to visualize the pelvic organs. A distended bladder also displaces bowel, which can prevent visualization of the pelvic organs.

Why do I have to fast for an abdominal ultrasound?
Fasting reduces the amount of air in the stomach and intestines which can interfere with visualization of underlying abdominal structures of interest. It also ensures that the gallbladder is fully distended so it can be thoroughly evaluated.

Can you tell the gender of my baby?
If the baby is big enough and it is a good position to see the genital area, the baby's sex can be determined. The sex can be determined as early as 16 weeks, though it is ideally seen between 18-20 weeks.

Does a breast ultrasound show more than a mammogram?
Mammography is still considered the "Gold Standard" for breast imaging. Ultrasound is typically used to further evaluate an abnormality seen on a mammogram, as well as lumps that the patient or physician has felt.

Can I video tape my fetal ultrasound?
Yes. Depending on the type of image, we can provide you with a CD, DVD or VHS tape.

Tell Me about 3-D and 4-D OB Ultrasound exams

Does Nebraska Health Imaging perform OB exams in 3-D and 4-D?

Yes. Most OB exams are performed in traditional 2-D. When appropriate, we perform exams in 3-D and live 4-D!

Why Have Your 3-D Ultrasound at Nebraska Health Imaging?

Our 3-D images are unsurpassed in the industry!
We employ only RDMS certified, experienced sonographers
Nebraska Health Imaging is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR)
All exams are interpreted by a Board certified sub-specialty Radiologist including a report to your physician
You can bring along a VHS tape or CD to record parts of the study live
Individual pictures of your baby to keep

Can I video tape my fetal ultrasound?

Yes. Depending on the specifics of the exam, we can record live images and still shots. Some can be saved to CD or DVD while others are available on VHS.

Can I bring anyone in the room with me?

Yes. We realize this is an exciting time you want to enjoy with family and friends. We welcome 2-3 people to join you in the room during your exam.

What does it cost?

Depending on if this exam is covered by your insurance, cost will vary. We will verify benefits and discuss these costs before your exam.
Nebraska Health Imaging is required to charge the same for every exam.
We do offer discounts for cash pay and also offer financial hardships.
Our billing specialist will review costs with you before your exam.
If your insurance covers 3-D, you would only be responsible for your co-pay, co-insurance or deductible.
Please check with your insurance provider for benefit information.

What if my insurance only covers one exam, can I come to Nebraska Health Imaging for an additional 3-D OB exam?

Yes. We will need an order from your provider to do this exam.

What does it cost to get an additional OB 3-D exam if my insurance does not cover or I do not have insurance?

If your routine OB ultrasound was performed at Nebraska Health Imaging:

The cost of the exam is $150.00 due day of service. We will not bill your insurance.
A limited diagnostic exam will be performed in 2-D including measurements, and heart rate with a report provided to your physician.
We will perform 3-D and when possible live 4-D
You will be given still photos and a CD or video tape of live recordings as a keepsake.

If your routine exam was not performed at Nebraska Health Imaging:

Nebraska Health Imaging is a diagnostic imaging center, accordingly we need to perform a complete ultrasound exam. This includes measurements, heartbeat, fetal anatomy, and fluid volume plus your 3-D images rate with a report provided to your physician.
The charge for this exam is $225.00, with payment due the day of your exam. We will not bill your insurance.
We will perform 3-D and when possible live 4-D.
You will be given still photos and a CD or video tape of live recordings as a keepsake.

When should I have my exam?

Your medical provider will determine when your ultrasound exam should be performed. The best time to get 3-D images is between 28-32 weeks.

Some things to remember

Ultrasound is a medical diagnostic exam, not a recreational device.
All exams performed at Nebraska Health Imaging require an order from your physician.
No more than 2 ultrasounds will be performed without reasonable indications.
Patients should check with their insurance provider for benefit coverage and any possibility they will cover more than 1 OB Ultrasound.
Our ability to obtain good pictures is dependant on many factors we can not control including your baby's positioning. We will do everything we can to get quality picture but can not guarantee anything.

When are you open for Ultrasound exams?

We understand you busy schedule and offer convenient hours for you and hope this also will allow you to bring family members along.

Monday - Friday 7:30 - 6:00
Saturday 7:30-12:30

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