An overview of Abdominal Ultrasound
An abdominal ultrasound is a medical imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of the organs and blood vessels within the abdomen. It is commonly used to screen for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which is an enlarged area in the lower part of the body's main artery (aorta). This test is recommended for men aged 65 to 75 who have smoked or used to smoke, as well as for those with symptoms or a family history of an aortic aneurysm. During the test, a trained professional applies a gel to the abdomen and uses an ultrasound device to capture images, which can help determine the cause of stomach pain, bloating, kidney stones, liver disease, tumors, and other conditions. The test takes about 30 minutes to complete, and there are typically no restrictions on regular activities afterward. Results are usually discussed during a follow-up visit or by phone.
What is Abdominal Ultrasound used for?
An abdominal ultrasound is used as a medical imaging test to observe the internal organs and blood vessels in the abdominal area. It is often used as a screening test for abdominal aortic aneurysms, which are enlarged areas in the lower part of the body's main artery (aorta). The test may also be employed to diagnose or rule out various other health conditions affecting the blood vessels in the abdomen, gallbladder, intestines, kidneys, liver, pancreas, and spleen. An abdominal ultrasound can help determine the cause of stomach pain or bloating, check for kidney stones, liver disease, tumors, and numerous other conditions. It is commonly recommended for individuals who are at risk due to smoking, symptoms, or family history of an aortic aneurysm.
How to prepare for Abdominal Ultrasound?
For an abdominal ultrasound, you usually need to avoid food and drinks for 8 to 12 hours before the test. This is called fasting. Fasting helps prevent gas buildup in the belly area, which could affect the results. It is recommended to remove any jewelry and store valuables in a locker near the exam room. You should be able to return to regular activities immediately after the procedure. Follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions for preparation and any additional screenings.
How is Abdominal Ultrasound conducted?
An abdominal ultrasound test is conducted by a trained care provider (sonographer). The person lies on their back on an examination table, and a special gel is applied to the belly area. The gel helps the ultrasound device create better images. The provider then gently presses the device against the belly, moving it back and forth to capture images that show how blood flows through the structures in the belly area. The test takes about 30 minutes to complete, and you can return to regular activities immediately after the procedure.
How are Abdominal Ultrasound results reported?
After an abdominal ultrasound, your healthcare provider shares the results with you at a follow-up visit or may call you with the results. If the ultrasound test didn't show an aneurysm, you usually don't need any additional screenings to rule out an abdominal aneurysm. However, if the ultrasound was meant to rule out other health concerns, you may still need additional studies. If the test shows an aortic aneurysm or other health concern, you and your healthcare provider will discuss a treatment plan.
Understanding the report
Abdominal ultrasound results are interpreted by a healthcare provider, who reviews the images generated by the test. The provider looks for any abnormalities or signs of disease in the blood vessels and organs within the abdomen, including the aorta, gallbladder, intestines, kidneys, liver, pancreas, and spleen. The images can reveal various conditions, such as aneurysms, tumors, cysts, inflammation, or blockages. Based on the findings, the healthcare provider will discuss a treatment plan or recommend further tests if needed. In some cases, if the ultrasound doesn't show an aneurysm, no additional screenings may be necessary. However, if the ultrasound is meant to rule out other health concerns, additional studies may be required.