Having an abdominal ultrasound
An abdominal ultrasound is used to produce images of the organs within your abdomen, including the liver, spleen, kidneys, gallbladder, pancreas, and urinary bladder. It is primarily used to investigate symptoms such as pain, bloating, nausea, abnormal blood tests, and a palpable mass, among others.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your examination will be performed by a sonographer, a specialist trained in ultrasound imaging. The sonographer will introduce themselves and confirm your identity and the procedure you are having.
The sonographer will move the transducer across your abdomen to capture images of your internal organs. You may be asked to hold your breath or adjust your position occasionally to enable the sonographer to obtain optimal images. This procedure is generally painless, but you may feel mild pressure from the transducer.
The duration of an abdominal ultrasound is typically around 20 minutes. However, it may take longer if more complex imaging is needed.
You will be asked to lie down on an examination table, and a clear gel will be applied to your abdomen. This gel helps to make contact between your skin and the ultrasound transducer, a handheld device that emits high-frequency sound waves into your body.
The sonographer will move the transducer across your abdomen to capture images of your internal organs. You may be asked to hold your breath or adjust your position occasionally to enable the sonographer to obtain optimal images. This procedure is generally painless, but you may feel mild pressure from the transducer.
The duration of an abdominal ultrasound is typically around 20 minutes. However, it may take longer if more complex imaging is needed.
Preparing for Your Ultrasound
Preparation for an abdominal ultrasound requires you to fast – refrain from eating or drinking anything except a small amount of water – for 6 hours before the exam. This step helps reduce the amount of gas in your abdomen, thus enhancing the clarity of ultrasound images. If you are a smoker, please abstain from smoking for at least 6 hours prior to the examination. Regular medications can be taken with a small amount of water.
For diabetic patients or those on special medications, please consult with your doctor for specific instructions before your ultrasound appointment.
Please wear a shirt and trousers or a skirt that allows easy access to your abdomen.
For diabetic patients or those on special medications, please consult with your doctor for specific instructions before your ultrasound appointment.
Please wear a shirt and trousers or a skirt that allows easy access to your abdomen.
Receiving Your Ultrasound Results
Once the examination is complete, the sonographer will review the images and prepare a detailed written report for your referring doctor. The process typically takes approximately one week. You will need to schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor to discuss these results.
It is always a good idea to discuss any questions or concerns with your healthcare provider to fully understand the procedure and its implications. Always consult with a healthcare professional to interpret the results and guide your next steps.
Please remember that the sonographer cannot provide you with results immediately after the exam, as they may need to discuss the findings with a radiologist.
It is always a good idea to discuss any questions or concerns with your healthcare provider to fully understand the procedure and its implications. Always consult with a healthcare professional to interpret the results and guide your next steps.
What to Keep in Mind
While an abdominal ultrasound is an excellent diagnostic tool, it's worth noting that not every condition can be detected with this method. Depending on your symptoms or the results of your scan, your doctor may recommend further investigations.
Last updated03 Jan 2024