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Diagnostic Ultrasound of the Abdomen

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Procedure

Diagnostic Ultrasound of the Abdomen

(Sonogram)

Definition

An ultrasound uses sound waves to create pictures of the inside of the body. This type of ultrasound takes pictures of the inside of the belly.

Abdominal Ultrasound

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Reasons for Test

This test may be done to:

  • Diagnose an injury or disease
  • Help find out the cause of belly pain, such as appendicitis
  • Identify gallbladder stones or kidney stones
  • Look at masses or fluid buildup in the belly
  • Look for the cause of poor liver or kidney function
  • Help find out why an internal organ is larger than normal
  • Examine the baby and uterus of someone who is pregnant

Possible Complications

There are no known risks from this test.

What to Expect

Prior to test

The care team will meet with you to talk about:

  • Any allergies you may have
  • Current medicines, herbs, and supplements that you take and whether you need to stop taking them before the test
  • Fasting before the test, such as avoiding food and drink for at least 8 hours before the test
  • Whether you need a full bladder before the test

Description of the Test

A gel will be placed over the belly. A hand-held wand is pushed against the skin. The wand sends sound waves into the body. The waves bounce off internal organs and echo back to the wand. The computer changes the echoes into pictures on a screen. The images are examined by the doctor. A photo of them may be taken.

You may be asked to change positions or hold your breath during the exam. You may feel some discomfort if you have a full bladder.

After Test

The gel will be cleaned off your belly.

How Long Will It Take?

30 minutes

Will It Hurt?

Most people do not have any problems after this test. You will be able to go back to normal activities.

Results

The pictures will be sent to a doctor who specializes in reading them. Your doctor will share the results with you.

Problems to Look Out For

Call your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Abdominal ultrasound. Radiology Info—Radiological Society of North America website. Available at: https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/abdominus.
  • ACR-SPR-SRU practice parameter for performing and interpreting diagnostic ultrasound examinations. American College of Radiology website. Available at: https://www.acr.org/-/media/ACR/Files/Practice-Parameters/us-perf-interpret.pdf.
  • General ultrasound. Radiology Info—Radiological Society of North America website. Available at: https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/genus.
Last Updated:
2022-08-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.