Abdominal Ultrasound

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Ultrasound of the abdomen uses sound waves to obtain pictures inside of the abdomen. The organs examined most often include the liver, gallbladder, biliary system, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and bladder. Ultrasound can also check the blood vessels in the abdomen.

Ultrasound sends sound waves into the body using a transducer, a hand-held device that sends and receives sound waves. After gel is applied to the skin, the sonographer (technologist) presses the transducer against the skin to obtain pictures, which then appear on a screen. As the sound waves echo from the body’s fluids and tissues, a picture is created showing the tissues that are being studied.

• If the gallbladder or biliary system will be studied, you must fast for at least 8 hours before your exam. This results in the highest accuracy in checking for biliary disease. When you eat, the gallbladder normally contracts to help digest your food. If you haven’t fasted, the gallbladder may look abnormal. Clear liquids are fine, as long as there is no fat or sugar. Black coffee, tea, and water are fine.
• For ultrasound of the other abdominal organs, no preparation is needed.
• Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing.

1. You will lie on an exam table, with your clothing moved away from your abdomen.
2. A warm gel is applied to your abdomen to help the transducer make contact with your skin.
3. The sonographer then presses the transducer against your skin and moves it around to obtain all the pictures.
4. The radiologist may obtain more pictures after the sonographer is done.

• Ultrasound of the abdomen is fast, painless, and easy.
• You will feel the sonographer apply warm gel to your abdomen, and press the transducer against your skin.
• The transducer will be moved over your skin until all the pictures are obtained.
• You may be asked to roll on either side, or change your position.
• There is little or no discomfort with the exam, which usually takes less than 45 minutes.

The radiologist who specializes in ultrasound will review the pictures and send the report to your referring doctor. You will receive your results from the doctor who ordered the test. The radiologist may discuss early findings with you when your exam is over.