Abdominal Ultrasound Test
Overview
Abdominal ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create clear images of the abdomen’s organs. The test shows the liver, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, and blood vessels, including the aorta. This noninvasive scan, also called a sonogram, is a common way to check for health issues in the belly area.
The ultrasound test helps detect and monitor problems such as an enlarged aorta, also known as an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Providers often use this tool to screen higher-risk groups, like older men with a history of smoking.
Key Points:
- The ultrasound forms real-time images using sound waves.
- The procedure involves no radiation.
- Sonography provides a safe method to view abdominal organs.
Reasons for Performing the Test
Doctors often use abdominal ultrasound to look for ballooning, or enlargement, of the main blood vessel in the belly, known as the abdominal aorta. Finding this problem early can help prevent serious issues like a rupture, which may happen fast and be very dangerous.
Who Should Be Checked
| Group | Screening Recommended? |
|---|---|
| Men ages 65-75 who smoked | Yes |
| Men 60+ with family history | Yes |
| Women | Usually not |
| Men who never smoked | Sometimes, case by case |
- Doctors commonly advise men ages 65 to 75 with a smoking history to get tested.
- Providers may recommend screening for men age 60 or older with a close family member who had an aortic problem.
- The test is not usually suggested for women or for men who have never smoked, unless there are other risk factors.
Other Common Uses
Abdominal ultrasound helps doctors examine different organs and structures. They use it to:
- Detect gallstones, cysts, tumors, or abscesses in the gallbladder, liver, pancreas, kidneys, and spleen.
- Check for blockages, infections, or abnormal masses in the intestines or bladder.
- Evaluate blood flow in the abdominal aorta and other blood vessels through vascular ultrasound.
- Identify causes for abdominal pain, swelling, or unexplained symptoms like masses or organ changes.
Doctors also use this scan to follow up on possible conditions such as cholecystitis, liver disease, pancreatitis, or an umbilical hernia.
Possible Concerns
Abdominal ultrasound is very safe and does not use radiation. Most people feel no pain during the test. Sometimes, mild discomfort can occur if pressure is applied to a sensitive area.
Steps to Get Ready
To prepare for this procedure, patients usually avoid eating or drinking anything for 8 to 12 hours before the test. This lowers the chance of gas in the belly area, making images clearer. Patients should ask if sipping small amounts of water is allowed for taking medicine.
Wear loose, comfortable clothes. Before the exam, remove jewelry and clothing or accessories from the waist up. Place personal items in a secure locker near the exam location. Always follow instructions from the healthcare team.
What You Can Expect
Steps During the Scan
You will lie flat on an exam table, usually on your back. The technician spreads a thin layer of gel over your abdomen to help the handheld device, called a transducer, work better.
The technician glides the transducer across your belly, sending sound waves that create echoes. These echoes form images of organs, like the liver or kidneys, on a monitor. The whole process often takes about 30 minutes.
After the Scan Is Finished
- Most people can return to their usual routines right away.
- No special restrictions or recovery steps are needed.
- The technician will wipe off the gel, and you can change back into your clothes.
Outcomes
After completing the abdominal ultrasound, the healthcare provider will contact you either during a follow-up visit or by phone. The findings can differ based on what the test was checking for.
- No Aneurysm Detected: You typically do not need further screening for an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
- Other Conditions Suspected: The provider might request additional tests for a more definite diagnosis.
- Aneurysm or Health Concern Found: The provider may recommend regular monitoring (watchful waiting) or discuss surgical options.
The results guide treatment plans and follow-up actions, and the healthcare team communicates information clearly so you can make decisions together.
