A small bowel follow-through (small bowel series) is a fluoroscopic examination of the small intestine.  A small bowel series is sometimes combined with an upper GI Series, which includes the esophagus and stomach. The patient drinks a liquid suspension called barium sulfate, which outlines the anatomy of small bowel.

No special preparation is required for a thyroid / neck ultrasound.

No special preparation is required for a scrotal or penile ultrasound.

Renal and bladder ultrasounds do not require fasting but do require a full bladder. Patients are asked to drink 32 ounces of water starting an hour before the exam and to arrive at the appointment time with a full bladder.