/Radiologic investigations/Preparation for investigations

Preparation for investigations

Ultrasound scan

If the ultrasound is used to investigate your abdominal or pelvic region (liver, pancreas, kidneys, gall-bladder, spleen, urinary bladder, uterus, prostate), you need to prepare in advance (in infants and young children, the preparation does not apply).

Before the investigation you may not eat for at least 4 hours. This restriction is necessary for several reasons:

  • A full stomach conceals the pancreas;
  • The gall bladder empties after eating and cannot be assessed;
  • Digestion of food and carbonated beverages produces intestinal gases that interfere with the investigation;
  • The urinary bladder must be full. A full bladder is positioned higher and thus enables the doctor to have a more accurate overview of the bladder, uterus and prostate. Therefore drink at least 2 glasses of water 1-2 hours before the investigation and do not empty the bladder before the end of the scan. After the scan you can use the bathroom immediately.

Take the daily medications prescribed to you by your doctor as per the treatment plan.

Computed tomography (CT) scan

Metal objects cause opacity on the CT scan image, therefore these objects may not be in the investigated region.

  • Clothing: please wear something light and comfortable, which is easy to take off, if necessary. Clothes should not have metal buttons, locks or hooks.
  • Jewellery: all metal jewellery and watches must be removed; also belts, hair clamps, hearing aids, glasses, if necessary, bras for women.

If the treating doctor has ordered an abdominal or pelvic CT, you may not eat 4 hours before the scan.

You should come 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes before the scan (the time depends on the investigation) for the administration of a contrasting agent.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan

Because the MRI scan uses a magnet, metal objects or mechanical devices are not allowed in the scan room.

  • Clothing: please wear something light and comfortable, which is easy to take off, if necessary. Clothes should not have metal buttons, locks or hooks.
  • Jewellery: all metal jewellery and watches must be removed. You must also remove all hair clamps, laces, needles that contain metal.
  • Hair and make-up: do not use hair spray or excessive make-up during the day of the scan.
  • Medications and diet: You can continue your daily medication, and there are also no restrictions on diet.
  • Dentures should be removed, if possible.
  • Do not take wallets, magnetic strip cards, knives, scissors, etc., to the scan.