Abdominal ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the organs and structures within the abdomen. It is a non-invasive, painless procedure that provides valuable information to doctors to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions.
During an abdominal scan, the technician or sonographer will apply a water-based gel to your abdomen and use a transducer to send sound waves through your body. The sound waves bounce off the organs and tissues in your abdomen and return to the transducer, creating images on a monitor.
Here are some of the things that doctors look for during an abdominal ultrasound:
Abdominal Aorta: The abdominal aorta is the largest artery in the abdomen, and it supplies blood to the lower part of the body. Doctors use ultrasound to check for abnormalities in the size, shape, and blood flow of the abdominal aorta.
Liver: The liver is a large organ in the upper right side of the abdomen that performs many vital functions, including filtering toxins from the blood. Ultrasound can detect liver tumors, cysts, abscesses, and other abnormalities.
Gallbladder: The gallbladder is a small organ located on the right side of the abdomen, just beneath the liver. Ultrasound can detect gallstones, inflammation, infection, and other problems with the gallbladder.
Pancreas: The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach that produces insulin and digestive enzymes. Ultrasound can detect abnormalities in the size, shape, and texture of the pancreas.
Spleen: The spleen is an organ located on the left side of the abdomen that filters blood and helps fight infection. Ultrasound can detect enlargement, cysts, abscesses, and other abnormalities of the spleen.
Kidneys: The kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine that filter waste from the blood. Ultrasound can detect kidney stones, cysts, tumors, and other abnormalities.
Bladder: The bladder is a muscular sac that stores urine before it is eliminated from the body. Ultrasound can detect abnormalities in the size, shape, and capacity of the bladder.
Blood vessels: Ultrasound can be used to check blood flow through the major arteries and veins in the abdomen, including the hepatic vein, portal vein, and renal arteries.
In conclusion, abdominal ultrasound is a non-invasive and painless diagnostic imaging test that can detect various medical conditions affecting the abdominal organs and structures. It provides doctors with valuable information to aid in diagnosis and treatment.