Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Abdominal Ultrasound with Contrast
Technical/Medical Term: Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS) of the Abdomen (HCPCS C9744)

Summary

An abdominal ultrasound with contrast is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses sound waves and a special contrast agent to create detailed images of the abdominal organs and structures. This helps to enhance the visibility of blood vessels and tissues, providing a clearer and more accurate diagnosis.

Purpose

This procedure is used to evaluate and diagnose conditions affecting the abdominal organs, such as the liver, pancreas, kidneys, and spleen. The goals are to detect abnormalities, monitor existing conditions, and guide treatment planning.

Indications

• Unexplained abdominal pain
• Suspected liver or kidney disease
• Abnormal liver function tests
• Suspicion of tumors or cysts
• Monitoring of known lesions or abnormalities
• Follow-up on inconclusive results from a standard ultrasound

Preparation

• Fasting for 6-8 hours prior to the procedure.
• Inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are taking; some may need to be adjusted.
• You may need to drink water to ensure a full bladder if required for certain views.

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies on an examination table.
2. A water-based gel is applied to the abdomen to help conduct the sound waves.
3. The ultrasound technician uses a handheld device called a transducer to capture images.
4. A contrast agent is injected intravenously to enhance image quality.
5. The transducer is moved over different areas of the abdomen to obtain images from various angles.
6. The entire process is monitored in real-time on a screen.

Tools: Ultrasound machine, transducer, contrast agent (microbubbles).

Anesthesia/Sedation: Typically, no anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital radiology department, outpatient imaging center, or specialized clinic.

Personnel

• Radiologist
• Ultrasound technician (sonographer)
• Nurse or medical assistant (possibly for administering the contrast agent)

Risks and Complications

• Allergic reaction to the contrast agent (rare)
• Discomfort from lying still during the procedure
• Potential for inconclusive results requiring further testing

Benefits

• Highly detailed images for accurate diagnosis
• Non-invasive and generally safe
• Immediate results and images available
• No ionizing radiation is involved

Recovery

• No specific recovery time needed; patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the contrast agent.
• Follow any additional instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Alternatives

• Standard abdominal ultrasound (without contrast)
• CT scan or MRI of the abdomen
• Each alternative has its pros and cons; for example, CT and MRI can offer more detailed images but involve higher costs and radiation exposure (CT).

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient might feel slight discomfort from lying still and cold from the gel applied to the skin. Post-procedure, there are generally no significant sensations, and comfort measures are usually unnecessary beyond routine aftercare steps.