An ultrasound
is a medical imaging technique that uses sound waves to create an image of the inside of the body. It is a non-invasive procedure that is used to diagnose and monitor a variety of medical conditions. An abdominal ultrasound
is a type of ultrasound that is used to examine the organs and structures in the abdomen, such as the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys.
An abdominal ultrasound works by sending sound waves into the abdomen. The sound waves bounce off the organs and structures in the abdomen and are then picked up by a transducer. The transducer then sends the sound waves to a computer, which creates an image of the organs and structures in the abdomen.
The difference between an abdominal and pelvic ultrasound is that a pelvic ultrasound is used to examine the organs and structures in the pelvis, such as the uterus, ovaries, and bladder. An abdominal ultrasound is used to examine the organs and structures in the abdomen.
An abdominal ultrasound can evaluate the size, shape, and position of the organs and structures in the abdomen. It can also detect any abnormalities, such as tumors, cysts, or fluid collections.
Healthcare providers perform abdominal ultrasound tests to diagnose and monitor a variety of medical conditions, such as abdominal pain, gallstones, kidney stones, and liver disease.
To prepare for an abdominal ultrasound, you should wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the test. You may also need to drink a special solution to help improve the quality of the images.
You do not need to fast for an abdominal ultrasound. However, you should avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the test.
An abdominal ultrasound is usually done in a hospital or clinic. During the test, you will lie on your back and the technician will place a gel on your abdomen. The technician will then move a transducer over your abdomen to take the images.
An abdominal ultrasound usually takes about 30 minutes.
An abdominal ultrasound is not painful. You may feel some pressure when the transducer is moved over your abdomen, but it should not be painful.
Ultrasound scans are generally considered safe. There is no radiation involved, so there is no risk of radiation exposure.
You should know the results of an abdominal ultrasound test within a few days. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you.
If you have any questions about an abdominal ultrasound, you should ask your healthcare provider.
References
- American College of Radiology. (2020). Ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.acr.org/Patients/Imaging-Modalities/Ultrasound
- Mayo Clinic. (2020). Abdominal ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/abdominal-ultrasound/about/pac-20384919
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2020). Ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/ultrasound
Keywords: ultrasound, abdominal ultrasound, medical imaging, transducer, abdominal pain, gallstones, kidney stones, liver disease, radiation exposure.