Ultrasound Whole Abdomen
Understanding Ultrasound Whole Abdomen
What is Ultrasound Whole Abdomen?
The Ultrasound Whole Abdomen is a painless and noninvasive imaging test that produces detailed pictures of the organs and structures of the belly (abdomen) using high-frequency sound waves. It diagnoses various conditions of the liver, kidneys, intestines, pancreas, gallbladder, and spleen and identifies the abnormality in these organs to direct a plan of treatment.
The Ultrasound Whole Abdomen or USG whole abdomen test procedure produces live images of the size, shape, and motion of the internal organs and blood traveling through the blood vessels within the abdominal area. The abdominal area is scanned by sending sound waves into the abdomen, and the resulting images are recorded on a computer.
The USG whole abdomen scan is advised for individuals with symptoms like abdominal discomfort, bloating, weight loss without a known cause, swelling, infection, etc., or when the other tests on blood indicate abnormal results. This scan can diagnose enlargement of organs, ascites, liver disease, kidney stones, gallstones, cysts, tumors, or inflammation. Also, it is one of the safest imaging modalities during pregnancy since it does not harm either the mother or the fetus.
This scan is a safer alternative than other imaging tests such as X-rays or Computed Tomography (CT) scans as it does not use ionizing radiations or oral contrast agents.
Fasting overnight (8-12 hours) and a full bladder are required prior to the test. This helps ensure clear pictures of the organs and structures within the abdomen. Dress in loose clothing, and take off any jewelry to prevent interference with the test. A trained radiologist will apply a gel to the abdomen and gently sweep the probe (transducer) over the skin during the test, creating real-time pictures. It might be required to temporarily turn or hold breath in order to get the best possible sight. Following the test, regular activity and diet may be resumed directly unless otherwise indicated by a physician.
Interpretation of the results needs expert advice. So do not self-medicate only on the basis of these test results. Always refer to the doctor for proper interpretation of your test results. The Ultrasound Whole Abdomen assists doctors in making informed decisions regarding appropriate treatment or lifestyle advice.
Disclaimer: You must visit your nearest Tata 1mg partnered lab facility for radiology tests.
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 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 fluid buildup (ascites) in the abdominal cavity.
- To detect cysts, tumors, or other abnormal growth inside the abdomen.
- For safe monitoring of the fetus and the mother during pregnancy.
What does Ultrasound Whole Abdomen measure?
USG (Ultrasound sonography) technology enables rapid visualization of the abdominal internal organs and structures from the outside of the body. This test records the size, shape, structure, and movement of the internal organs such as the liver, kidneys, intestines, pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, and the abdominal cavity blood vessels. This test identifies abnormalities like tumors, cysts, stones, fluid collection, and evidence of infection or inflammation in these organs. Through the image capture of real-time images, the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test monitors the abdominal vessels' blood flow, aiding in the diagnosis of liver disease, kidney pathology, and other gastrointestinal ailments.
The USG machine includes a computer console, a video monitor, and a plug-in transducer (a little hand-held device similar to a microphone). The transducer is placed on the skin, and the sound waves travel through the body to the organs and structures inside. The sound waves rebound through the organs as an echo and go back to the transducer, which then interprets the reflected sound waves and produces images of the organs or tissues. Physicians interpret these images to identify abnormalities and order proper treatment if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ultrasound Whole Abdomen
Q. Is the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test safe?
Q. How long does the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test take?
Q. Will I feel any pain during the USG whole abdomen test?
Q. Do I need a doctor's prescription for the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test?
Q. Are there any alternatives to the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test?
Q. How often should I have the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test?
Q. Can I have the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Q. How does the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test work?
Q. Will I be exposed to radiation during the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test?
Q. Can I bring a family member or friend with me during the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test?
Q. What happens if the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test finds something abnormal?
Q. Is sedation required for the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test?
Q. Can I take my regular medications before the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test?
Q. What if I'm claustrophobic? Can I still have the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test?
Q. Can children have the Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test?
Q. How do I prepare if I have diabetes or other chronic conditions?
Q. What's the difference between an open and closed Ultrasound Whole Abdomen test machine?
References
- Ultrasound [Internet]. NIH; Dec 20223 [Accessed 25 Jul. 2024]. Available from: https://www.nibib.nih.gov/science-education/science-topics/ultrasound
- El-Nakeep S, Pozun A. Sonography Intestinal Assessment, Protocols, and Interpretation. [Updated 2023 Aug 13]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK570568/
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