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The aorta is the main artery that exits the heart and extends down into your belly. Pictures of this artery are taken with sound waves, not x-rays.
You may not eat or drink anything for 8-10 hours before the test. Food in your stomach or intestine could block the view of the aorta.
You will be asked to lie on an exam table. Warm gel is applied to your abdomen which helps to optimize the images. Pictures will be seen on a computer screen during the exam.
You may be asked to wait while the images are reviewed. There are no further restrictions. You may resume your regular diet.
The pictures are reviewed by the radiologist and the results are sent to your doctor. The results cannot be given to you by the sonographer administering the test.
If you have any questions, call your physician or call the UPMC Hamot Ultrasound Department at 814-877-2258.
If you cannot keep your appointment, please call our scheduling department at 814-877-6123 to reschedule.
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