Get an ultrasound at South Jersey Radiology

An ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses a transducer (probe) to generate sound waves, and computer technology to capture real-time visuals. Unlike other studies, an ultrasound can create “movies” that capture the movement of organs including heartbeats, contractions of bowel loops, and flow of blood vessels.

An ultrasound is the preferred method for examining soft tissues in your body, like your thyroid gland, breasts, abdominal and pelvic organs, and testes. There are also special ultrasound designed to look at how blood flows through your arteries and veins:

  • A doppler vascular ultrasound is a special type of ultrasound that helps doctors see and assess blood flow in arteries and veins through your body, including your abdomen, arms, legs, neck, and brain. It can also check blood flow in organs like your liver and kidneys.
  • A vascular ultrasound creates detailed images and measurements of blood vessels in your body. It’s great for spotting any issues with your blood vessels and can help physicians quickly and accurately diagnose a number of conditions.
Ultrasound Technologist Viewing Fetus On Monitor
South Jersey Radiology Associates West Deptford Office Sign

Our Ultrasound Locations

South Jersey Radiology provides Ultrasounds across 8 of our office locations. SJRA offers same-day and next-day appointment options with many locations offering extended and weekend hours to meet your busy schedule.

What To Expect During An Ultrasound

During an ultrasound, you’ll relax on a table. One of our technologists will put a warm gel on your skin and gently move a small device called a transducer over the area. Sometimes, you may be asked to move slightly or hold your breath briefly.  Once the study is done, the gel will be wiped off and you’ll be able to return to your normal daily activities. 

Ultrasound Technologist Explaining Images Of Shoulder To Patient

Ultrasound Frequently Asked Questions

During most ultrasounds, you will simply lie down on an exam table while the area being studied is exposed, and the rest of your body stays covered. Our ultrasound technology will be present to guide you through the process.

They will gently apply a warm, water-based gel to the part of your body being studied. Then, using a small device called a transducer, they will carefully move it over the area to capture the images needed. You won’t feel any discomfort as the transducer glides over your skin. Once the ultrasound is completed, the gel will be wiped off, and any leftover will dry up without staining your clothes.

Preparing for an ultrasound is super simple. Depending on what area we are focusing on, your physician and our team at South Jersey Radiology will give you specific instructions. Here are some general guidelines to help you get ready for your appointment:

  • Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early for your appointment.
  • If we are looking at your liver, gallbladder, spleen, or pancreases, have a light, low-fat dinner the night before your appointment. Also, please don’t eat or drink anything for at least 12 hours before your appointment.
  • For a pelvic ultrasound, it is important to have a full bladder. Drink about 6 8-ounce glasses of water, finishing an hour before your appointment. Try not to use the bathroom before your appointment. 
  • If we are focusing on your kidneys, we might ask you to drink 4 – 6 glasses of water about an hour before your appointment. 
  • If we are checking your aorta, please avoid eating for at least 8 hours before you appointment.

An ultrasound is completely painless and doesn’t involve any radiation, making it completely safe.

Once your ultrasound is complete, one of our board-certified, subspecialized radiologists will analyze the results and develop a detailed report for your physician. Your physician will receive the report within 48 hours and follow up with you to go over the results. 

After 5 – 7 days, your reports and images will be available to you via our easy-to-access patient portal.

South Jersey Radiology is in-network with 99% of health insurance providers. If you are unsure about our network status with your health insurance provider, please contact your provider directly. In some cases, insurance companies may attempt to tell you which radiology centers are preferred. As the patient, you have the right to choose if you would like your study performed as South Jersey Radiology.