There are a number of imaging studies that identify gallbladder disease, but most gallstones will not show up on conventional x rays. That requires contrast agents given by mouth that are excreted into the bile. Ultrasound is very useful.
Without a gallbladder, stones rarely reform. Patients who have continued symptoms after their gallbladder is removed may need an ERCP to detect residual stones or damage to the bile ducts caused by the stones before they were removed.
This test requires a blood sample.
No special preparations are necessary for this test.
No special preparation is needed to use a hyperbaric chamber other than educating patients about what to expect during treatment.
Before beginning a monthly BSE, a woman's breasts should be completely exposed.
Patients should not drink alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, smoke tobacco, or ingest other nicotine products for 24 hours before the test. These substances can affect test results. Patients should also not eat anything.
Patients should make sure their doctors are aware of any medications that they are taking, even over-the-counter medications. Patients should not take aspirin, or any other blood-thinning medications for ten days prior to surgery.
The standard preoperative blood tests are performed. The patient should not eat or drink the day of the procedure.
There are many reasons for immobilization using splints, casts, and braces. Each person should understand his or her diagnosis clearly.
Tarsorrhaphy is a minor procedure done under local anesthesia. Special preparation is not necessary.
The nurse or doctor may inject the site with a local anesthetic before flushing the wound.
Patients should not eat or drink for several hours before the exam. Many medications affect the esophagus; doses sometimes need to be adjusted or even stopped for a while. Patients must inform doctors of all medications taken.