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Abdominal ultrasound

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Abdominal ultrasound
Abdominal ultrasound
Digestive system
Digestive system
Kidney anatomy
Kidney anatomy
Ultrasound in pregnancy
Ultrasound in pregnancy
Kidney - blood and urine flow
Kidney - blood and urine flow
Abdominal ultrasound
Abdominal ultrasound

Alternative Names    Return to top

Ultrasound - abdomen; Abdominal sonogram

Definition    Return to top

Abdominal ultrasound is an imaging procedure used to examine the internal organs of the abdomen, including the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. The blood vessels that lead to some of these organs can also be looked at with ultrasound.

How the Test is Performed    Return to top

An ultrasound machine creates images that allow various organs in the body to be examined. The machine sends out high-frequency sound waves, which reflect off body structures to create a picture. A computer receives these reflected waves and uses them to create a picture. Unlike with x-rays or CT scans, there is no ionizing radiation exposure with this test.

You will be lying down for the procedure. A clear, water-based conducting gel is applied to the skin over the abdomen. This helps with the transmission of the sound waves. A handheld probe called a transducer is then moved over the abdomen.

You may be asked to change position so that the health care provider can examine different areas. You may also be asked to hold your breath for short periods of time during the examination.

The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.

How to Prepare for the Test    Return to top

Preparation for the procedure depends on the nature of the problem and your age. Usually patients are asked to not eat or drink for several hours before the examination. Your health care provider will advise you about specific preparation.

How the Test Will Feel    Return to top

There is little discomfort. The conducting gel may feel slightly cold and wet.

Why the Test is Performed    Return to top

Your health care provider may order this test to:

The specific reason for the test will depend on your symptoms.

Normal Results    Return to top

The organs examined are normal in appearance.

What Abnormal Results Mean    Return to top

The significance of abnormal results depends on the organ being examined and the nature of the problem. You should consult your health care provider with any questions and concerns.

Many possible conditions could be revealed by an abdominal ultrasound. Some of these include:

Risks    Return to top

There is no documented risk. No ionizing radiation exposure is involved.

References    Return to top

Cosgrove DO, Meire HB, Lim A, Eckersley RJ. Ultrasound: general principles. In: Grainger RC, Allison D, Adam, Dixon AK, eds. Diagnostic Radiology: A Textbook of Medical Imaging. 5th ed. New York, NY: Churchill Livingstone; 2008:chap 3.

Pickhardt PJ. Diagnostic imaging procedures in gastroenterology. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 13.

Update Date: 10/29/2008

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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