What is an Abdomen Ultrasound?
An abdomen ultrasound is a diagnostic exam using high frequency sound waves to study the organs and vessels of the abdomen. Using ultrasound, the technologist can visualize specific organs such as the kidneys, liver, gall bladder, pancreas, aorta, or spleen. Ultrasound is safe and does not involve the use of any injections or radiation.
How is the examination performed?
A Registered Ultrasound Technologist will perform your examination and can answer any questions you may have. An abdomen ultrasound is done by placing a small amount of warm ultrasound gel on your stomach and by pressing a small probe or transducer over the area to be imaged.
Who is a candidate for an Abdomen Ultrasound?
An abdomen ultrasound can sometimes be ordered for abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or bloating, for example.
Will I need to prepare for the exam?
Yes, please do not eat, drink or chew gum after midnight prior to your exam or at least 6-8 hours before your appointment time. If you take medication for your heart, diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, or asthma please do so with a small amount of water 2 hours prior to your appointment time.
What will I experience?
You will be asked to lie down on your back and expose your stomach. The Technologist will place some warm gel on you and begin pressing the transducer or probe into your abdomen. The Technologist may be giving you some breathing instructions that help in obtaining the best possible images. A series of images will be taken that last about 30 minutes.
What happens next?
The Technologist will give you a towel to wipe off the gel and you are done. The Technologist will analyze your images and send them to the Radiologist’s computer for interpretation. The Radiologist, a State of New Mexico licensed and board certified Physician, that specializes in radiology interpretation, will read your images. A report will be dictated, transcribed, and faxed to the Physician that ordered your test. Your Physician will receive the report and is responsible for notifying you of the results.