Name of the Procedure:

Ultrasound, abdominal, real time with image documentation; complete
Common Names: Abdominal Ultrasound, Abdominal Sonography

Summary

An abdominal ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the organs and structures within the abdomen in real-time. This non-invasive procedure provides detailed images that help doctors diagnose and treat various medical conditions.

Purpose

Abdominal ultrasounds are used to investigate symptoms such as abdominal pain, swelling, or abnormal liver function tests. The goal is to assess organs like the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, and blood vessels to diagnose potential issues.

Indications

• Unexplained abdominal pain
• Abdominal swelling
• Abnormal liver function tests
• Suspected gallstones or kidney stones
• Monitoring of known abdominal conditions (e.g., cysts, tumors)
• Follow-up after abdominal surgery

Preparation

• Fasting for 8-12 hours before the procedure to ensure clear images
• Drinking water and holding urine prior to the test if the bladder needs to be assessed
• Avoiding certain medications as directed by the healthcare provider

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies on an examination table.
2. A water-based gel is applied to the patient's abdomen to facilitate sound wave transmission.
3. A transducer (hand-held device) is moved over the abdomen, emitting sound waves.
4. Real-time images are produced and displayed on a monitor.
5. The radiologist or technician captures various organ images.
6. The gel is wiped off after the procedure.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

An abdominal ultrasound is performed in a radiology department of a hospital, outpatient clinic, or an imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologist
• Ultrasound Technologist or Sonographer
• Occasional presence of a radiology nurse

Risks and Complications

• Ultrasound is a safe procedure with no known risks or complications.
• Rarely, patients may experience minor discomfort from the pressure of the transducer.

Benefits

• Non-invasive and painless
• Provides detailed images for accurate diagnosis
• No exposure to ionizing radiation
• Immediate results for a timely diagnosis

Recovery

• No recovery time is required; patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled based on findings.

Alternatives

• CT Scan: Offers detailed cross-sectional images but involves radiation exposure.
• MRI: Provides high-resolution images but is more expensive and not as readily available.
• X-rays: Less detailed and involve radiation.

Patient Experience

Patients may feel slight pressure from the transducer but generally experience minimal discomfort. The gel applied may feel cool. After the procedure, patients can clean off any remaining gel and continue with their day without restrictions. Pain management is not usually required for this procedure.