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Your physician has referred you to Radiology
Imaging Associates,
for diagnostic medical imaging examination(s).
This page provides instructions to assist
you in preparing for your examination(s). Your referring
physician's office should have indicated the particular
exam for which you are scheduled.
Please follow the preparation instructions
closely to ensure the best results. Improper preparation
may result in an incomplete diagnostic exam and the need
to reschedule the appointment.
Click on each exam below to read its Preparation
Instructions:
Important Instructions
X-rays and Pregnancy
For women of child bearing age(12-50), all x-ray and CT exams of the abdomen,
pelvis and proximal femurs, and all Nuclear Medicine exams are to be scheduled
between day one and day fourteen following the start of the menstrual cycle,
unless the chance of pregnancy can be excluded, i.e., hysterectomy, tubal
ligation, use of birth control pills, or other birth control devices.
Comparison Studies
Please make arrangements to bring all related imaging studies, i.e., prior
x-rays, CT's, MRI's, Sonograms, Mammograms, etc., so that our radiologist
can make comparisons and provide the best interpretation of your new studies.
Insurance Billing
Please bring your insurance information. We will be happy to assist you with
the details of insurance filing or designing a payment plan if necessary.
Film Sign-Out Policy
To prevent delays and inconvenience, please notify us 24 hours in advance if
you need to sign-out your records. We need this time to prepare the records.
Records are provided on CD media. If film is needed, there may be additional cost.
Referral Order for Exam
Written referral order and co-payment are needed and due at time of service.
The written referral is similar to a prescription for medication, we must
have it to perform your imaging exam.
Upper G.I. Series
An Upper G.I. Series is a fluoroscopic examination that
uses a special substance, barium sulfate contrast media,
to highlight the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. This
exam lasts approximately 30 minutes.
On the day before the examination:
- Do not eat anything after 10:00 p.m. You may have
clear liquids until midnight and then nothing until after
the examination.
On the day of the examination:
- Do not eat or drink anything, chew gum or smoke until
your examination has been completed.
- However, if your appointment is scheduled after 12:00
noon, you may drink up to one cup of clear liquid,
coffee, or tea in the morning, but not later than 8:00
a.m.
- Generally you are not allowed
anything by mouth until your exam is completed. Consult
your physician or our office before taking any medication. Feel
free to bring any medication with you to take immediately
after the exam.
- After the exam, to prevent constipation, we recommend that you drink plenty of fluids and take a mild laxative, unless contraindicated by your doctor.
Small Bowel Series
The Small Bowel Series is an
x-ray examination that uses a barium sulfate contrast
media to visualize the small intestines. This exam
can follow an Upper G.I. Series and usually lasts 1 ½-3
hours. This exam can last longer depending on how quickly
the contrast moves through the intestine.
On the day before the examination:
- At 8:00 p.m. take three Dulcolax tablets or 2 tablespoons
of Milk of Magnesia.
- Do not eat anything after 8:00 p.m. You may have
liquids until midnight and then nothing until after
the examination.
On the day of the examination:
- Do not eat or drink anything, chew gum or smoke until
your examination has been completed. However, if your
appointment is scheduled after 12:00 noon, you may
drink up to one cup of clear liquid, coffee, or tea
in the morning, but not later than 8:00 a.m.
- After the exam, to prevent constipation, we recommend
that you drink large quantities of fluids and take
a mild laxative (Milk of Magnesia, castor oil or Dulcolax)
unless contraindicated by your doctor.
Barium Enema
The Barium Enema is an x-ray examination using a barium
contrast enema to visualize the large intestine. The
exam lasts approximately 1 hour.
As preparation for this examination
you will need to obtain a Fleet Prep Kit No. 2 from
your local pharmacist. Because you will need to begin
a special bowel cleansing preparation and follow a
specific diet which is tailored to your age prior to
the barium enema, the Fleet Kit must be obtained 3
days before your scheduled appointment if you are 65
years of age or older (2 days before your appointment
if younger than 65).
Specific instructions are enclosed with the kit.
- If 65 or older, call RIA for instructions.
- If younger than 65, follow the 24-hour prep instructions.
- If you have a history of constipation
call RIA for instructions.
Most local pharmacies stock this kit or the pharmacist
can order the kit, usually overnight, if not stocked.
Intravenous Pyelogram (I.V.P.)
I.V.P. examines the urinary system (kidneys, ureters
and bladder) following the intravenous injection of a
liquid iodine based contrast media. The exam takes approximately
1 hour.
On the day before the examination:
- Drink plenty of fluids, at least six glasses.
- Eat a light evening meal. Light meal includes clear
soups (fat-free), small portions of fowl or fish, plain
gelatin, white bread (no butter), plus any non-carbonated
liquids.
- After dinner, take a mild laxative. Options include
any of the following:
- 4 TBSP. Milk of Magnesia, or
- 3 Tablets Dulcolax, or
- 4 TBSP. castor oil.
- DO NOT eat solid foods after midnight
On the day of the examination:
- Do not eat solid foods until after the exam.
- Non-carbonated liquids are allowed up to three hours
before the exam.
- After the test is completed, drink several glasses
of liquid throughout the day.
For patients using Glucophage or Glucovance:
For diabetic patients using Glucophage, Glucovance or any other medication containing Metformin: You must contact the Center for special instructions before you begin this preparation. Also, if you are age 65 or older, or have a known severe allergy, you must contact the Center for special instructions before you begin this preparation.
Myelogram
Myelography is the x-ray of the spinal cord after
the injection of a contrast media into the subarachnoid
space of the cord. It is principally used to evaluate
the condition of nerve roots and the effect of adjacent
structures on the nerves.
On the day before the examination:
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Eat regular meals.
On the day of the examination:
- Have only liquids for breakfast.
- Please try to arrive on time and bring all related
films, such as spine x-rays, M.R.I.'S, CT Scans,
for our Radiologist to review.
- The exam is usually completed quickly, but you
are required to be at the Center for up to 3 hours.
It is recommended, but not required that someone
stay with you.
- You may choose to bring something to read and
something to eat after the exam. We will provide
spring water since you will need to drink plenty
of fluids after the exam. If you prefer other drinks
you may bring them.
- Someone must drive you home! We cannot release
patients who are driving themselves.
- You will receive prescriptions to be filled following
the myelogram.
CT Scans of:
Do not eat solid foods 4 hours prior to exam. Clear
liquids and medications are allowed up to 2 hours before
exam.
Patients need to drink a barium contrast (a liquid that shows the intestines) at least one to two hours prior to the appointment.
We prefer that you obtain the contrast
from the Center one day in advance so that you may begin
to drink it at home prior to the appointment. A printout of specific instructions will accompany the barium contrast. Patients
must arrive two hours prior to the appointment if they
cannot obtain the contrast in advance.
Please bring all related films for our radiologist to
review.
For Diabetic Patients using Glucophage or Glucovance:
For diabetic patients using Glucophage, Glucovance or any other medication containing Metformin: You must contact the Center for special instructions before you begin this preparation. Also, if you are age 65 or older, or have a known severe allergy, you must contact the Center for special instructions before you begin this preparation.
CT Scans of:
- Sinus
- Spine
- Extremeties
- Chest, Brain, Neck, etc.
Do not eat solid foods 4 hours prior to exam. Clear
liquids and medications are allowed up to 2 hours before
exam. Arrive at scheduled time.
Please bring all related films for our radiologist to
review.
For Diabetic Patients Using Glucophage or Glucovance:
For diabetic patients using Glucophage, Glucovance or any other medication containing metformin: You must contact the Center for special instructions before you begin this preparation. Also, if you are age 65 or older, or have a known severe allergy, you must contact the Center for special instructions before you begin this preparation .
Prostate Ultrasound / Biopsy
To image the prostate gland, a small ultrasound
probe is placed in the rectum. The exam lasts approximately ½ hour.
Tissue samples can also be obtained through this probe if a biopsy is
needed. Unless otherwise indicated, please follow the instructions below.
This will prepare you for both the prostate ultrasound and also the biopsy
in the event that the radiologist performing the study determines that
biopsy is necessary.
In advance of the procedure you will need to purchase a Fleet enema and
you will need a prescription from your physician for an antibiotic (6 Cipro
tablets, 500 mg.). This is to prevent infection in the event that a biopsy
is performed.
On the day before the examination:
- Take one Cipro tablet at 8:00 a.m. and one at 8:00 p.m.
On the day of the examination:
- Take one Cipro tablet at 8:00 a.m. and if biopsy was performed, also
at 8:00 p.m. Administer Fleet enema according to the instructions, two
hours before the exam.
- Since a biopsy may be performed and is considered to be a minor surgical
procedure, you will need to bring someone with you to drive you home.
We cannot release patients who are driving themselves.
If biopsy was performed:
- Follow all other instructions given to you after the biopsy.
- Take one Cipro tablet at 8:00 p.m. the evening of the biopsy. Take
another Cipro tablet at 8:00 a.m. and one at 8:00 p.m. on the day following
the biopsy.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are on blood thinning medications, aspirin therapy,
or have any bleeding disorders, please notify us at the time of scheduling.
Special arrangements will need to be made.
Abdominal
Sonogram
Sonography is the use of "sound waves" to record
images to the abdomen. This examination lasts approximately 30 minutes.
On the day before the examination:
- Do not eat or drink anything, chew gum or smoke after midnight.
On the day of the examination:
- Generally you are not allowed anything by
mouth until your exam is completed. Consult your physician or our office before taking
any medication. Feel free to bring any medication with you to
take immediately after the exam.
- Do not eat or drink anything, chew gum or smoke until after your
examination is completed.
PET Scan
1. Eating: The day before
your exam, follow a low carbohydrate diet, avoiding sweets, breads,
pasta, rice, and cereals. Do not eat anything for at least 4-hours
prior to your exam, however, try to drink 2 - 3 glasses of water
during this time. Most medications do not interfere with this test
and can be taken as usual.
2. Diabetic Patients: For the test to be effective,
it is important for your blood sugar levels to be low. At the time
you schedule your appointment, please inform us if you are diabetic
so we can provide special instructions.
3. Exercise: Do not exercise within 24-hours of
your scheduled PET scan appointment.
4. Pain Medications: If you have difficulty lying
on your back for any length of time, consider asking your doctor
for pain medication to be taken prior to your exam.
5. Claustrophobia: Most patients with claustrophobia
tolerate a PET scan without difficulty. The unit is very open and
only the portion of your body being imaged is within the scanner
at any one time. Should you feel you may require sedation, you should
discuss this need with your doctor prior to your appointment at the
PET Scan Center.
6. Prior Imaging Tests: It
is very important that our radiologists have available the results
of all previous imaging test (CT, MRI, PET, Sonogram, X-rays) that
relate to the condition for which we are doing the PET scan. This
enables the radiologist to provide the most accurate interpretation
of your PET scan. Consequently, we ask that you make arrangements
to deliver the films and reports for these tests to our PET Scan
Center. Your PET Scan cannot be read until we have your prior imaging
films and reports.
Renal Sonography
Sonography is the use of "sound waves"
to record images of the kidneys.
On the day of the examination:
- No preparation is required.
Retroperitoneal Sonography
Sonography is the use of "sound waves" to record images of the kidneys, ureters and urinary bladder.
On the day of the examination:
- Finish drinking 24 ounces of water one hour before your appointment time.
- Do not empty your bladder after drinking the water until the examination is completed.
Pelvic Sonogram
Sonography is the use of "sound waves" to record
images of the bladder, uterus, and ovaries. This examination
of the pelvic anatomy lasts approximately 30 minutes.
On the day of the examination:
- Start drinking four 8 ounce
glasses of water 1 ½-2
hours before your appointment time. Finish drinking
the 4 glasses one hour before your appointment to allow
your bladder time to fill.
- Do not empty your bladder after drinking the water
until the examination is completed, or you may need
to reschedule.
- Your bladder must be full in order to do the examination.
You will be able to empty your bladder when the examination
is completed.
Obstetrical Sonogram
Sonography is the use of "sound waves" to record
images of the bladder, uterus, and ovaries. This examination
of the pelvic and fetal anatomy lasts approximately 30-60
minutes.
On the day of the examination for patients up to 21
weeks pregnant:
- For patients less than 12
weeks pregnant, start drinking 32
ounce glasses of water 1 ½-2 hours before your
appointment time. Finish drinking the 32 ounces of
water one hour before your appointment to allow your
bladder time to fill.
- Patients 12 - 21 weeks pregnant should
finish drinking only 16 ounces of water one
hour before your appointment.
- Do not empty your bladder after drinking the water
until the examination is completed, or you may need
to reschedule.
- Your bladder must be full in order to do the examination.
You will be able to empty your bladder when the examination
is completed.
On the day of the examination for patients 22 or more
weeks pregnant:
- No preparation is required for patients 22 or more
weeks pregnant.
- You do not need to have a full bladder at this stage
of pregnancy.
Multiple Births- Please inform the scheduling department if you are aware that you are carrying twins, triplets, etc. as the examination time will be longer.
Biophysical Profile
The Biophysical Profile uses Sonography to evaluate
fetal status and activity. A large meal before the test
is necessary to enhance fetal activity. The exam may
require 30-45 minutes.
On the day of the examination:
- Please bring comparison films if baby was scanned
elsewhere previously.
Nuclear Medicine
Radioisotope tracers injected
into veins can be used to visualize various organ systems
and pathologic processes in the body. The tracers travel
through the body and a special "gamma camera" is
used to detect the tracer and produce medical images.
Nuclear medicine is an extraordinary medical tool.
It's reliable, painless, and low-risk.
Hepatobiliary Scan instructions:
- Do not eat or drink for 6 hours prior to the exam
except for water.
Thyroid Uptake instructions:
- Do not eat seafood for 72 hours prior to the exam.
- Do not eat or drink anything 4 hours prior to the
exam except for water.
- Thyroid hormones must be discontinued 14 days prior to the exam.
- Thyroid suppressants must be discontinued 5 days prior to the exam.
- No IV contrast studies 4 weeks prior.
For other Nuclear Medicine
Exams:
- No preparation is required.
Important Note:
- A written referral order is absolutely required at
the time of service. Please obtain this from your doctor
and bring it with you.
Mammography
- On the day of your exam do not apply underarm deodorant
or powder from the waist to the neck. If you must use
powder or deodorant, please let us know before the exam
so that we may provide you with wipes to remove it.
- Please try to wear a two-piece outfit for your ease
of changing and comfort.
- If you have had prior mammograms at another institution,
you must bring them with you or have them mailed to
us one week prior to your appointment. These will be
utilized for comparison to your new exam.
Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
Special mammography imaging and localization equipment
allows needle biopsy of the breast as an outpatient.
- No preparation is required.
- If you take aspirin or blood thinners, please discontinue
using these 3 days in advance of the procedure. Check
with your physician. Regular medications should be taken
as prescribed.
- A comfortable, two piece garment should be worn.
- Your most recent mammogram must be provided to us
at least 24 hours in advance of the procedure.
Bone Densitometry
This scan is a quick and comfortable test used to detect fracture risk due to osteoporosis.
It is also used to monitor the progress of patients undergoing treatment.
- Do not take calcium supplements for 24 hours prior to the examination. These supplements may be found in multi-vitamins and antacids. Please be certain to read the labels when taking all medications within 24 hours prior to the examination. Dairy products are acceptable.
- You should not have certain radiologic studies within
the 7 days before the exam, i.e., barium studies, studies
involving IV or oral contrast, or Nuclear Medicine studies.
- Try to wear an outfit without buttons, snaps, zippers,
or anything metal.
- Bring a list of your medications with dosages
- You may want to check with your insurance company
about coverage for this test.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (M.R.I.)
- There is no need to alter your diet or medication
prior to an M.R.I. examination. Because of
the magnetic field, however, you will need
to leave the following items in a private locked
cabinet outside of the M.R.I. room:
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- Eyeglasses
- Hearing Aids
- Coins
- Credit Cards
- Hairpins
- Underwire Bras
- Medication Patches
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- Removable Dental Work
- Jewelry
- Keys
- Watches
- Other Metallic or
Metal-Containing Objects
- Orthopedic Braces
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If you have a history of working around metal, grinding, welding or you think you may have metal in your eyes, you will need to come for an orbital x-ray prior to your appointment.
- In addition, please do not wear hairspray
or eye makeup.
- You may be asked to change into a patient
gown. Sometimes this is not necessary if your
clothes are relatively free of metal.
- Please note that a patient may not qualify
for an M.R.I. exam if any of the following
conditions exist:
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- Pacemaker
- Aneurysm Clips
- Neural Stimulator
- Metal Objects Imbedded
in the Body
- IUD
- Permanent makeup (eyeline, lip liner, eyebrows, etc.) unless vegetable dye was used
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- Cochlear Implants
- Artificial Heart Valve
- Pregnancy
- Metallic Fragments, Objects or Implants
in the Eye
- Cataract Surgery prior to 1990
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- Please alert our staff to any of the above
conditions when you schedule an appointment,
and inform the technologist of your condition(s)
before beginning an examination.
- Please make arrangements to bring all related
imaging studies, i.e., prior x-rays, CT's,
M.R.I.'s, Sonograms, Mammograms, etc., so that
our radiologist can make comparisons and provide
the best interpretation of your new studies.
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