Abdominal ultrasound
Abdominal ultrasound, also known as an abdominal scan, is a diagnostic imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the organs and structures in your abdomen. It is a non-invasive and painless procedure that can help diagnose a variety of medical conditions.
During an abdominal ultrasound, a handheld device called a transducer is moved over your abdomen, which emits high-frequency sound waves that bounce off your organs and tissues. These sound waves are then converted into images that can be viewed on a monitor. The procedure is painless and typically takes around 30 minutes to complete.
Abdominal ultrasounds can help diagnose a range of conditions, including gallstones, liver disease, pancreatic cancer, kidney stones, and abdominal tumors. They can also be used to monitor the development of a fetus during pregnancy.
Abdominal ultrasounds are considered safe and have no known risks or side effects. They do not involve any radiation, making them a preferred imaging modality for pregnant women and children. However, there are some limitations to the test. Abdominal ultrasounds may not be able to provide clear images in patients who are obese or have a lot of gas in their intestines.
In conclusion, abdominal ultrasound, or an abdominal scan, is a non-invasive and painless diagnostic imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the organs and structures in your abdomen. It can help diagnose a range of medical conditions and monitor the development of a fetus during pregnancy. The procedure is safe and has no known risks or side effects, making it a preferred imaging modality for pregnant women and children.