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Ultrasound in Normal, IL

A Better Ultrasound Experience

Convenience is important so we offer Ultrasound exams at our center in Normal, IL and can offer accommodate same-day exams and flexible scheduled appointments.

The cost of an Ultrasound exam is substantially lower than the cost of the same exam performed at a local hospital. We believe that offering value, without compromise, is the right thing to do.

What is an Ultrasound?

Ultrasound imaging uses high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. It does not use radiation and provides clear pictures of soft tissues that don’t show up well on X-rays. Images are captured in real time and can show the movement of the body’s internal organs.

What you should know

Answers to frequently asked questions.

Some joints, such as the hip and shoulder, are complex structures making accurate diagnoses more difficult. To better visualize the entire joint structure, your doctor may order an “arthrogram” with an MRI or CT to follow. The arthrogram uses the guidance of ultrasound to inject contrast dye directly into the joint. The injection is performed by a radiologist under a local anesthetic. The injection may be slightly painful and you may feel pressure in the joint as the injection is performed. The radiologist and technologist will take steps to make you comfortable. The MRI or CT will be performed directly after the arthrogram is performed so the injected dye will be visible providing more clarity to the structures in the joint.

A joint aspiration is performed to remove a large collection of fluid surrounding a joint. Sometimes bursitis (inflammation of the bursa) causes fluid to collect near a joint. Removing the fluid will decrease the pressure, relieve pain, and improve movement of the joint. During the procedure a local anesthetic may be used, which could cause a brief stinging sensation. The radiologist will insert the needle through the skin into the joint removing fluid by drawing it into a syringe that is attached to the needle

Therapeutic joint injections are minimally invasive injections of a long-lasting steroid to relieve the discomfort caused by inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, gout, and tendonitis. The joint injections provide direct treatment to the affected area, which offers more centralized relief and little to no side effects.

An ultrasound shows the details of structures in the abdomen. It can show features like the size and movement of organs, cysts or growths, or fluid collections. An ultrasound of the abdomen is most often done to:

  • Diagnose an injury or disease
  • Help determine the cause of abdominal pain, especially appendicitis
  • Identify gallbladder stones or kidney stones
  • Assess masses or fluid collections in the abdomen
  • Assess the cause of abnormal liver or kidney function
  • Help determine why an internal organ is enlarged
  • Examine the baby and uterus in pregnant women
  • Evaluate changes or problems in the blood vessels

Certain exams require an empty stomach or full bladder for better visibility of the organ. You may be advised to:

  • Fast for 8-12 hours before the test to decrease the amount of gas in your intestines and make organs easier to see
  • Have a full bladder before the test by drinking 6 or more glasses of water without going to the bathroom

You will be positioned on a table. A gel will be placed over the area that will be checked. The gel helps the sound waves travel from a wand to your body.

The ultrasound machine has a hand-held wand. The wand is pushed against your skin where the gel has been applied. The wand sends sound waves into your body. The waves bounce off your internal organs and echo back to the wand. The computer can convert echoes into images on a screen. The images on the screen are examined by the radiologist. A photograph of them may be taken.

  • You may be asked to change positions or hold your breath
  • You shouldn't feel any pain
  • Should last 30 minutes or less
  • You will be able to return to your normal activities afterward

At Ft. Jesse Imaging & Gale Keeran Center for Women we understand that the cost of an imaging exam can be a concern. Our rates for both insured and uninsured patients are substantially lower than the same exam performed at a hospital. We believe that price transparency is important so you can be prepared for your financial obligations, if any. To learn more about what your exam may cost, please click here.

The radiologist will review the ultrasound images and provide a diagnostic report that will be sent directly to your provider. The report is typically available to your provider within 24-48 hours. Many providers plan scheduled time to discuss results with their patients so you could check with their office to see when they will be available to review the information with you.

To request a copy of your report, please click here

Prep for your exam

If you have an appointment scheduled, please click here to pre-register, complete forms and review exam preparation instructions. If you have any questions about your visit, please contact the imaging center at 309.454.5552.