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Abdominal Ultrasound Scans

An abdominal ultrasound is a medical imaging procedure that uses sound waves to create pictures of the organs and structures inside your abdomen. It is a safe, non-invasive, and painless way to help Mr Ferguson diagnose a variety of conditions.

Ultrasound

What is an Abdominal Ultrasound Used For?

An abdominal ultrasound is commonly used to examine the following organs and structures:

  • Liver

  • Gallbladder

  • Pancreas

  • Spleen

  • Kidneys

  • Bladder

  • Aorta (main abdominal blood vessel)

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It helps in diagnosing a range of conditions, such as:

  • Abdominal pain or swelling

  • Gallstones or kidney stones

  • Tumors, cysts, or abnormal masses

  • Infections or inflammations in organs

  • Liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis or fatty liver)

  • Disorders of the fallopian tubes or ovaries

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How Does the Procedure Work?

During the ultrasound, a small handheld device called a transducer is applied to your abdomen. The transducer sends high-frequency sound waves into your body. These sound waves bounce off organs and tissues and return to the transducer. A computer then converts the returning sound waves into real-time images on a screen.

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What to Expect During the Scan

  • Preparation: You may be asked to fast for 6-8 hours before the exam, especially if your gallbladder or pancreas needs to be examined. This is to ensure that the organs are clearly visible on the images. In some cases, you might need to drink water to fill your bladder.

  • During the Exam: You will lie on an exam table, usually on your back. A gel is applied to your abdomen to help the transducer move smoothly and improve image quality. The technician will move the transducer over your abdomen to capture images from different angles.

  • Duration: The scan typically lasts between 10-20 minutes, depending on the complexity of the exam.

 

After the Procedure

Once the ultrasound is complete, you can resume your normal activities. The gel will be wiped off, and you can go back to eating and drinking unless instructed otherwise.

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Is the Procedure Safe?

Yes, abdominal ultrasounds are considered very safe. They do not use radiation (unlike X-rays or CT scans), so there is no exposure to harmful radiation. It is a painless procedure with no known risks. Ultrasound is commonly used in pregnant women to monitor the health of the baby.

Results

A radiologist or doctor will review the images and share the results with you. Depending on your condition, further tests may be recommended, or your doctor will discuss the next steps based on the ultrasound findings.

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