Ultrasound Whole Abdomen

Also known as USG Whole Abdomen, Whole abdomen ultrasound, Abdominal ultrasound, Ultrasound abdomen

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Overnight fasting (8-12 hrs) is required. Do not eat or drink anything except water before the test.
Drink plenty of water before the USG procedure to ensure a full bladder.

Understanding Ultrasound Whole Abdomen

What is Ultrasound Whole Abdomen?

The Ultrasound Whole Abdomen is a non-invasive, painless imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the organs and structures within the belly (abdomen). It helps diagnose a range of conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, intestines, pancreas, gallbladder and spleen, helping identify the abnormalities in these organs to guide a treatment plan.

The Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test creates real-time images that can show the size, structure and movement of the internal organs, as well as blood flowing through the blood vessels inside the abdominal area. The ultrasound machine sends sound waves into the abdomen, and the resulting images are recorded on a computer.

The Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, unexplained weight loss, swelling, infection etc., or when the other blood tests show abnormal findings. This test can help identify conditions such as enlarged organs, fluid in the abdominal cavity, liver disease, kidney stones, gallstones, cysts, tumors or inflammation. Additionally, it is often done during pregnancy as it poses no harm to the mother or the baby.

The Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test is a safer alternative as compared to other imaging tests such as X-Rays or Computed Tomography (CT) scans since it does not use ionizing radiations or oral contrast agents.

An overnight fasting (8-12 hours) is required for this test as fasting helps prevent gas buildup in the abdomen, which could affect the results. Drink plenty of water before the test, as a full bladder helps create clearer images of the organs and other structures inside the abdomen. Additionally, wear loose and comfortable clothing and remove any jewelry before the test. For this test, you will need to visit one of the Tata 1mg' s partnered facilities.

Interpretation of test results requires expert guidance, therefore do not self-medicate solely based on these test results and always consult the doctor for proper understanding of your test results. The Ultrasound Whole Abdomen helps doctors make informed decisions about further treatment or lifestyle recommendations.

What is Ultrasound Whole Abdomen used for?

The Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test is done:

To identify the cause of symptoms such as unexplained abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, swelling etc.
To detect abnormalities and assess the size, structure and movement of the internal organs like the liver, kidneys, intestines, pancreas, gallbladder and spleen.
To detect the presence of kidney stones or gallstones.
To investigate the cause of abdominal swelling or bloating and detect fluid buildup(ascites) in the abdominal cavity.
To detect the presence of cyst, tumors, or other abnormal growth inside the abdomen.
To safely monitor the health of the fetus and the mother during pregnancy.

What does Ultrasound Whole Abdomen measure?

USG (Ultrasound sonography) technology allows quick visualization of the internal organs and structures of the abdomen from outside the body. The Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test measures the size, shape, structure and movement of the internal organs like the liver, kidneys, intestines, pancreas, gallbladder, spleen and the blood vessels within the abdominal cavity. This test helps find out abnormalities such as tumors, cysts, stones, fluid accumulation, and signs of inflammation or infection in these organs. By capturing real-time images, the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test assesses the blood flow through the abdominal vessels, helping in the diagnosis of liver diseases, kidney dysfunction, and other gastrointestinal conditions.

The USG machine consists of a computer console, video monitor and an attached transducer (a small hand-held device that resembles a microphone). The transducer is placed on the skin, and the ultrasound waves move through the body to the organs and structures within. The sound waves bounce off the organs like an echo and return to the transducer. The transducer processes these reflected waves, which are then converted into images of the organs or tissues by the computer. Doctors interpret these images to detect any abnormalities and initiate appropriate treatment.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ultrasound Whole Abdomen

Frequently Asked Questions about Ultrasound Whole Abdomen

Q. What is the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test?

The Ultrasound Whole Abdomen is the non-invasive imaging test that uses high frequency sound waves to produce images of the organs and structures within the abdomen. It helps diagnose various conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, intestines and other abdominal structures.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test?

No, the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen is a safe and painless procedure that does not use any harmful radiation. However, you may have some temporary discomfort when USG probes are pressed on an area that is sore or tender.

Q. How to prepare for the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test?

Your doctor will tell you all the pre-test information such as: 1) Do not eat or drink anything except water for 8-12 hours before the test. 2) Empty your bladder one or two hours before the procedure. 3) Drink plenty of water 30 minutes before the procedure and do not urinate again until the procedure is completed. 4) Wear comfortable clothes and remove your jewelry before the procedure. 5) Take your medications as prescribed.

Q. How is the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test done?

For the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test, you need to lie on your back on a comfortable table. During the test, a trained radiologist: 1) Applies gel to your abdomen. 2) Move the probe over your skin. 3) Gives you instructions to turn to one side or hold your breath for a few seconds. 4) Cleans your skin and wipes off any remaining gel on your skin.

Q. What diseases can the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test detect?

The Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test can detect diseases such as liver disease, kidney stones, gallstones, gallbladder inflammation, appendicitis, pancreatitis, enlarged spleen, abdominal aortic aneurysm (swelling in aortic blood vessel), pyloric stenosis (a problem that affects babies between birth and 6 months of age and causes forceful vomiting that can lead to dehydration), abdominal growth such as tumor or cancer, hernia, etc.

Q. How long does the USG whole abdomen take?

The USG whole abdomen ultrasound may last as long as it takes for the radiologist to get clear images of the intended areas.

Q. Why is it important to drink plenty of water before the ultrasound procedure?

Drinking plenty of water before the Ultrasound (USG) procedure helps create a clearer image of the abdominal organs and structures. The full bladder serves as a reservoir of fluid that enhances the transmission of the sound waves, providing better visualization for the radiologist.

Q. Can an abdominal ultrasound be done at home?

No, for the USG whole abdomen test, you need to visit your nearest Tata 1mg partnered lab facility as these tests are outsourced. Our health advisors will call you to confirm your preferred lab and time slot for the test.

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