Abdominal Ultrasound: Overview, Preparation, Procedure, Recovery, Risks, and Aftercare
Overview
The abdominal ultrasound procedure, also known as abdominal sonography, visualizes the internal organs and structures in the abdomen, including the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, and intestines. In order to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions affecting the abdomen, high-frequency sound waves are used to create images of the abdominal organs in real-time.
Preparation
An abdominal ultrasound typically requires minimal preparation and usually does not require special steps. In order to improve the quality of ultrasound images, patients may be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure to ensure their stomach and intestines are empty. In addition, patients may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking for a specified period before the procedure, since food and beverages may interfere with the ultrasound picture.
Procedure
During an abdominal ultrasound procedure, a gel is applied to the skin over the abdomen, and the patient lies on a table or bed. A handheld device called a transducer emits high-frequency sound waves to the gel-covered area as the healthcare provider moves it over it. The sound waves bounce off the internal organs and tissues, creating real-time images that are displayed on a monitor. In order to obtain clearer images of certain structures, the healthcare provider may gently press the transducer against the abdomen. The entire procedure usually takes about 30 minutes.
Recovery
Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately after an abdominal ultrasound because recovery is immediate. The abdominal ultrasound procedure does not require any downtime or recovery period, so patients can return to work, school, or other activities without restrictions. It is considered safe for patients of all ages, including pregnant women and infants, and there are no known risks or side effects associated with it.
Risks
Unlike other imaging procedures, abdominal ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation, so it is safe for patients of all ages, including pregnant women and babies. Most patients generally tolerate abdominal ultrasound well, and there are no known risks or side effects associated with it. As with any medical procedure, there may be rare cases of allergic reactions to the gel used during the ultrasound or discomfort if the abdomen is sensitive to pressure.
Aftercare
Following an abdominal ultrasound, patients do not have to follow any special instructions. After the procedure, patients are free to resume their normal activities. Patients may be advised to follow up with their healthcare provider for further evaluation and management if any abnormalities are detected during the ultrasound. In the aftermath of the abdominal ultrasound procedure, patients should follow the instructions provided by their healthcare provider and contact them if they have any questions or concerns.
