Ultrasound involves exposing a part of the body to high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Ultrasound does not use radiation (x-rays). Ultrasound images are captured in real-time and can therefore show the structure and movement of the body's internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels.
Ultrasound imaging is a painless investigation that helps your doctor to diagnose and treat medical conditions. An abdominal ultrasound produces a picture of the organs and other structures in the upper abdomen. A doppler ultrasound is a special ultrasound technique that evaluates blood as it flows through a blood vessel, including the body's major arteries and veins in the abdomen.
Abdominal ultrasound imaging is performed to evaluate the kidneys, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, abdominal aorta and other blood vessels of the abdomen.
You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your ultrasound exam. You may need to remove all clothing and jewelry in the area to be examined. You will be asked to wear a gown during the procedure.
Other preparations depend on the type of ultrasound you are having.
Ultrasound scanners consist of a console containing a television monitor and a transducer that is used to scan the body. The transducer is a small hand-held device that resembles a microphone, attached to the machine by a cord. The transducer sends out a high frequency sound waves and then listens for a returning sound wave or "relection". The ultrasound image is immediately visible on the television monitor.
Ultrasound exams are performed with you lying on a couch. A clear gel is applied to the ultrasound transducer before examining the area of your body. The radiologist can then press the transducer against your skin lightly and sweeps it back and forth over the area of interest.
This ultrasound examination is usually completed within 30 minutes.
Ultrasound examinations are painless, quick and easy. After you are positioned on the examination table, the radiologist will place some gel on your skin and then press the transducer firmly against your body, moving it back and forth over the area of interest until the desired images are captured. There may be varying degrees of discomfort from pressure as the transducer is pressed against the area being examined. If a doppler ultrasound study is performed, you may hear sounds that change in pitch as the blood flow is monitored and measured. After an ultrasound exam, you should be able to resume your normal activities.
A radiologist specifically trained to supervise and interpret radiology examinations, will analyze the images and send a signed report to your doctor. In some cases the radiologist may discuss preliminary results with you at the conclusion of your examination.
Ultrasound waves are reflected by air or gas; therefore ultrasound is not an ideal imaging technique for the bowel. Barium exams and CT scanning are the methods of choice for bowel-related problems.
If you have a query about having an Abdominal Ultrasound, please ring the Radiology Department (Ultrasound department) between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday &, 9am and 12pm Saturday.