Abdominal ultrasound is a medical examination technique that allows us to observe the organs and structures found within the abdominal cavity and thus diagnose their condition. It also allows simultaneous interventions to be carried out, since it makes it possible to safely direct the punctures to the precise areas.
At Clínica Magnasalud we work with state-of-the-art ultrasound machines, equipped with HdLive technology that allows us to achieve very high resolution images, movement, different focuses, colour, up to 5D and of course Doppler, which helps us to assess the condition of the blood vessels.
The examination technique is quite simple, painless and free of harmful effects for the patient. The ultrasound machine generates ultrasound waves that are collected and directed through a transducer or probe. These waves are processed by a computer that converts them into images that can be viewed on a screen in real time and then printed or saved on a computer along with the corresponding medical report. Normally, in our center, the patient leaves with the medical report after the examination.
When should an abdominal ultrasound be performed? Who should have an abdominal ultrasound? What symptoms or history should we consider?
- In cases of pain and/or abdominal distension.
- Suspicion of any alteration/disease of the liver, gallbladder and tract.
- In the study of any pathology of the kidneys and urinary system.
- In the study of the pancreas and spleen.
- In the case of suspected appendicitis.
- To study the presence of strictures or aneurysms of the abdominal aorta.
- In women, study of the uterus or ovaries, or for pregnancy monitoring.
- In men, study of the prostate.
- In general to view and photograph the structures contained within the abdomen.
What is detected in an abdominal ultrasound?
The radiologist The patient will view and interpret the images, recording the results in a report.
The report of an abdominal ultrasound will include information about the organs examined and the findings found.
Tumours, signs indicating various infections, such as abscesses or inflammation in an organ, malformations or pathology of the biliary tract or urinary tract may be found.
In the vessels that supply blood to the various organs or the abdominal aorta, thrombi, vascular infarcts (due to the obstruction of an artery), aneurysms or hemorrhages may be found.
What parts or organs does the abdominal ultrasound study?
- Stomach ultrasound
- Liver Doppler ultrasound
- Pelvis ultrasound
- Ovarian ultrasound
- Ultrasound Transvaginal
- Complete abdominal ultrasound
- Soft tissue ultrasound
- Liver, Spleen, Pancreas ultrasound
- Kidney-Bladder-Urinary Tract Ultrasound
- Prostate ultrasound
- Intestinal ultrasound
How is an abdominal ultrasound performed?
To perform an abdominal ultrasound, the patient will lie face up on a stretcher with the abdomen exposed. The room where it will be performed will have the light off to better see the ultrasound screen.
The doctor or his assistant will apply a gel to your abdomen to increase the conduction of ultrasound waves through the skin. The doctor will pass the probe over different parts of your abdomen. This examination is not uncomfortable or painful. You will be asked to change your posture to allow for better visualization of certain areas.
After the examination, any remaining gel will be wiped off with a tissue, although this gel has moisturizing properties so there is no problem in leaving it on or spreading it over your abdomen.
Recommendations before coming
- Come in easy-to-remove clothing, as the abdominal area will have to be undressed for the procedure.
- Fast for 6 hours before the examination.
- The test takes about 20 minutes and is done in an outpatient clinic. No need for hospitalization.
- No medication is required.
- There are no contraindications and no discomfort.
- If you have any related documents or requests, you must bring them to show to the radiologist.
You must bring any related documents or requests to show to the radiologist.
Price of the abdominal ultrasound
The abdominal ultrasound costs 85 euros.