Abdominal ultrasound is an imaging examination that allows assessment of organs located in the abdominal cavity, including the liver, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, gallbladder, and intestines. This method is an important diagnostic tool for detecting conditions such as cirrhosis, cholecystitis, tumors, gallstones, and other abdominal diseases.
When is abdominal ultrasound indicated?
Abdominal ultrasound may be recommended in the following cases:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort in the right or left upper quadrant.
- Digestive disorders such as frequent constipation, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
- Suspicion of liver or gallbladder diseases, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, or gallstones.
- Kidney-related problems such as pain, edema, or changes in urination.
- Exacerbation of chronic conditions (for example, pancreatitis or cholecystitis).
- Follow-up after abdominal surgery or trauma.
Advantages of abdominal ultrasound
- Safety — ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation and is safe for patients of all ages.
- Accuracy — helps detect tumors, stones, inflammatory processes, abscesses, and other pathological changes in abdominal organs.
- Painlessness — the procedure is noninvasive and does not require anesthesia.
- Accessibility — abdominal ultrasound is widely available and takes a relatively short time to perform.
How is abdominal ultrasound performed?
During the examination, the patient lies on their back while a special gel is applied to the abdominal skin to improve contact with the ultrasound transducer. The physician moves the transducer over the abdomen to examine the liver, pancreas, kidneys, and other abdominal organs. In some cases, the patient may be asked to hold their breath or change body position to obtain clearer images.
For better visualization, preliminary preparation may be recommended, such as following a specific diet for several days before the examination or undergoing the procedure on an empty stomach.
Abdominal ultrasound is available in leading clinics in Belarus, where highly qualified specialists provide accurate diagnostics and recommend appropriate treatment options.
