|
|
 |
 Abdominal ultrasound   DefinitionAbdominal 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 to some of these organs can also be evaluated with the use of ultrasound techniques. The ultrasound machine sends out high-frequency sound waves that reflect off body structures to create a picture. Unlike with x-rays, there is no ionizing radiation exposure with this test. Alternative NamesUltrasound - abdomen; Abdominal sonogramHow the test is performedThe test is done in the ultrasound or radiology department. You will be lying down for the procedure. A clear, water-based conducting gel is applied to the skin over the area being examined to help with the transmission of the sound waves. The ultrasound transducer (a handheld probe) is then moved over the abdomen. You may be asked to move to other positions so 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 testPreparation 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 feelThere is little discomfort. The conducting gel may feel slightly cold and wet. Why the test is performedThere are many reasons for performing an abdominal ultrasound, including looking for the following:
The reason for the examination will depend on your symptoms. Normal ValuesThe organs examined are normal in appearance. What abnormal results meanThe 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:
What the risks areThere is no documented risk. No ionizing radiation exposure is involved. Special considerationsImagesReferences
Reviewed by: Stuart Bentley-Hibbert, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Review date: 2006-10-23 A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission www.urac.org. URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial process. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics www.hiethics.com and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation www.hon.ch. The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Adam makes no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.  |
 Advertisement
 Related Topics
|
||||||
|
HealthCare.com does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatments.
Copyright © 2006-2008 HealthCare.com Inc.
|
 |
