| EXAM PREPARATIONS
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) – An MRI is a diagnostic exam that combines a strong magnetic field and radio waves to construct images of various parts of the body.
- A careful review of your medical history must be conducted by Marble Falls Imaging Center prior to scheduling your appointment.
- If you are claustrophobic, a mild sedative can be given. You must have a driver if you are given the sedative.
- You may wear comfortable clothing such as a sweat suit with no metal.
- You will be required to remove all removable metallic objects prior to entering the magnet.
CT Scan (Computed Tomography) – A CT scan is a diagnostic exam that utilizes x-ray to produce a cross-sectional image of various body parts. Contrast media, either intravenous or oral, may be required.
- A careful review of your medical history must be conducted by Marble Falls Imaging Center prior to scheduling your appointment.
- At scheduling, you will be given instructions regarding lab work, preps, or contrast protocol prior to your exam.
Myelogram – A myelogram is a radiographic examination of the spinal cord that uses a contrast agent that is injected into the spinal canal. There may also be an additional exam, such as an MRI or CT scan to complete the study.
- A careful review of your medical history must be conducted by Marble Falls Imaging Center prior to scheduling your appointment.
- NPO (nothing by mouth) 4 hours prior to exam.
- Be prepared to remain at the Imaging Center for 3-4 hours following the exam.
- You must have a driver to drive you home following the exam.
IVP (Intravenous Pyelogram) – An IVP is a radiographic exam of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder in which an injection of an iodinated contrast is used to demonstrate the urinary tract.
- A careful review of your medical history must be conducted by Marble Falls Imaging Center prior to scheduling your appointment.
- Your physician will give you instructions for a prep if they desire
- Routine medications may be taken with a small amount of water.
Barium Enema – A barium enema, or BE, is a study of your lower digestive tract or colon, and is examined fluoroscopically.
- A colon prep, the Fleets III prep, is required to cleanse the colon prior to the exam. It may be purchased at any pharmacy.
- Follow the regimen for the 18 hour prep.
- Routine medications may be taken with a small amount of water.
Barium Swallow or Esophagram – An esophagram is a diagnostic study of the esophagus in which barium sulfate is swallowed and viewed by fluoroscopy.
- NPO (nothing by mouth) 4 hours prior to exam
- Routine medications may be taken with a small amount of water.
UGI (Upper Gastrointestinal Tract) – Barium sulfate is swallowed and the upper gastrointestinal tract is viewed by fluoroscopy and radiographs are taken. The small bowel may also be included in the exam.
- NPO (nothing by mouth) 4 hours prior to exam
- Routine medications may be taken with a small amount of water.
Ultrasound – An ultrasound is a diagnostic exam which uses high frequency sound waves to image various body structures. Special instructions are required for abdomen and pelvic sonograms.
- Abdomen
-NPO (nothing by mouth) 6 hours prior to exam.
-Routine medications may be taken with a small amount of water.
- Pelvic or OB
-Drink 32 ounces of water or other clear liquid one hour before exam.
-Do not empty bladder prior to exam.
- Renal Doppler/SMA Doppler
-A colon prep, the Fleets III prep, is required prior to the exam. It may be purchased at any pharmacy.
-Follow the regimen for the 18 hour prep.
Mammography
- Every attempt must be made to obtain prior mammograms for comparison.
- No deodorant, powder, or perfume should be worn the day of exam
- If you are scheduled for a screening mammogram and you have implants or have had breast cancer, please notify the Imaging Center so that your appointment can be changed to a diagnostic mammogram.
Nuclear Medicine – Nuclear Medicine is a diagnostic testing method utilizing low-level radioactive isotopes to study specific organs or organ function.
- A careful review of your medical history must be conducted by Marble Falls Imaging Center prior to scheduling your appointment
- Specific instructions will be given for each type of exam ordered.
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