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Prenatal Diagnosis and Treatment Center
Obstetrical Ultrasound:
About Our Ultrasound Services: Our AIUM-accredited ultrasound unit employs registered (RDMS) ultrasonographers or Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Candidates (DMS) who specialize in the field of obstetrics. We have state-of-the-art ultrasound machines, including those with 3D and 4D capability.
We provide a wide range of ultrasound services: first trimester scans, comprehensive fetal anatomy screens, fetal growth scans, scans on multiple gestations, and second opinion/consultation for known/suspected fetal abnormalities. In addition, we offer fetal echocardiography, first trimester screening, and ultrasound guidance for invasive fetal procedures.
All scans are interpreted by one of our board-certified perinatologists. Study results are provided to the patient before her departure from our department.
Coordination of appointments with neonatal/pediatric specialists is provided for those patients requiring such services.
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Specific Patient Instructions: Please be sure to arrive at least 10-15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to allow time for registration. Please have your referral and a current insurance card with you at the time of your visit. For your convenience, we have provided a registration form which can be accessed on-line as well as additional relevant information. Please click on the "Contact Us" navigation bar on the left side of this page.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Is ultrasound harmful to my baby? Ultrasound is a specialized exam using sound waves (not x-rays) to visualize your baby. No radiation is involved.
How long will the exam take? We allow one hour per patient for each exam; however, some exams take less time than others. Multiple gestations (twins, triplets, and higher) are allotted the proper amount of time needed to perform a complete exam. Sometimes because of unexpected findings, a scan may take longer than expected; therefore, some scheduling delays may occur. Be assured that each patient is given the amount of time needed to perform a comprehensive ultrasound study.
Will I need a full bladder?
- If you are less than 12 weeks pregnant, you will need a full bladder.
- If you are having a CVS procedure, you will need a full bladder.
- If you are between 12 and 16 weeks pregnant, your bladder need only be half full.
- If you are more than 16 weeks pregnant, you do not need a full bladder.
- A full bladder is not needed for amniocentesis.
Can I eat before my appointment? It is fine to eat before your ultrasound, unless specifically instructed otherwise by a physician.
Can I make a videotape of my baby? Videotaping for nondiagnostic purposes is not performed; however, keepsake still images of your baby will be provided. Please be aware that fetal position may limit our ability to obtain optimal keepsake images.
Can I have a 3D ultrasound of my baby? While we do have 3D/4D ultrasound machines, they are reserved for cases in which there is a known/suspected fetal abnormality. In the setting of a fetal abnormality, 3D/4D technology may sometimes be beneficial; however, the limitations of 3D are often the same as 2D; therefore, this technology is used at the attending physician's discretion. We do provide 2D keepsake images of your baby which are obtained at the time of your scan. Please be aware that fetal position may limit our ability to obtain optimal keepsake images. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cautions against the use of 3D/4D imaging for entertainment purposes. Click here to read the official statement of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine regarding the use of 3D/4D technology.
Will I be able to find out the sex of my baby? Depending upon the baby's position and gestational age, we can tell you what sex we think the baby will be. Please keep in mind that ultrasound is not 100% accurate in fetal sex determination.
Where are you located, where can I park, do I have to pay to park? Obstetrical ultrasound services are available at the Johns Hopkins Hospital and at Johns Hopkins at Greenspring Station. Parking is not validated at the Johns Hopkins Hospital, please see posted rates at garage entrance. Please keep your ticket with you and remember to pay before returning to your car. Parking is free at Johns Hopkins Greenspring Station.
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