Ultrasound
Our in-office diagnostic ultrasound provides rapid, radiation-free imaging of the abdomen and liver, enabling real-time evaluation of organ structure, gallstones, liver conditions, and other abdominal pathology.
Understanding Ultrasound
An abdominal ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of organs and structures inside the abdomen. In gastroenterology, ultrasound may be used to evaluate the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, or abdominal pain concerns. Providers describe abdominal ultrasound as a test that uses sound waves to assess abdominal organs and blood flow.
During the exam, ultrasound gel is placed on the skin and a handheld probe is moved over the area being evaluated. The test does not use radiation and usually does not require sedation. Depending on the type of ultrasound ordered, patients may be asked not to eat or drink for several hours before the exam. Results are reviewed by the medical team and discussed with the patient as part of the care plan.
What to Expect
We Walk You Through Every Step So You Feel Prepared, Informed, And Confident.
Before Your Test
- Fast for 6-8 hours for abdominal ultrasound
- Drink water if pelvic organs need evaluation
- Wear loose-fitting clothing
- No special preparation for most examinations
During the Test
- Lie comfortably on an exam table
- Warm gel is applied to the examination area
- A transducer is gently moved over the skin
- Real-time images appear on a monitor
After Your Test
- Wipe off the gel and get dressed
- Resume normal activities immediately
- Preliminary findings reviewed; pathology results discussed at follow-up visit
- Additional imaging may be recommended if needed
Conditions We Address
This Procedure May Be Recommended If You Are Experiencing Any Of The Following Conditions.
Gallstones
Detect Gallstones And Gallbladder Inflammation With High Accuracy.
Liver Disease
Evaluate Liver Size, Texture, And Signs Of Cirrhosis Or Fatty Liver.
Abdominal Pain
Investigate The Cause Of Acute Or Chronic Abdominal Pain.
Pancreatic Evaluation
Assess The Pancreas For Masses, Cysts, Or Inflammatory Changes.
Kidney Assessment
Check For Kidney Stones, Hydronephrosis, And Structural Abnormalities.
Ascites Monitoring
Detect And Monitor Fluid Accumulation In The Abdominal Cavity.
Why Choose Digestive Care
Decades Of Expertise, Advanced Technology, And A Patient-First Approach.
In-Office Convenience
No need for a separate imaging center visit. Get your ultrasound and consultation in one appointment.
Radiation-Free
Ultrasound Uses Sound Waves, Not Radiation, Making It One Of The Safest Imaging Modalities Available.
Real-Time Interpretation
Your Gastroenterologist Performs And Interprets The Exam In Real Time For Immediate Clinical Correlation.
Results & Follow-Up Care
Preliminary findings may be reviewed after the procedure, with a follow-up visit recommended once pathology results are available to discuss detailed results and next steps.
Comfortable & Painless
The Exam Involves No Needles Or Discomfort, Just Gentle Pressure From The Ultrasound Transducer.
Comprehensive Assessment
We Evaluate All Relevant Abdominal Organs In A Single Session For Thorough Diagnostic Workup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need To Fast Before An Ultrasound?
For abdominal ultrasound, fasting for 6-8 hours is recommended to reduce gas and allow better visualization of the gallbladder and bile ducts.
Is Ultrasound Safe?
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves and does not involve any radiation. It is one of the safest imaging tests available and is routinely used for patients of all ages.
How Long Until I Get Results?
In many cases, your doctor can discuss preliminary findings immediately after the exam. Formal reports are typically available within 1-2 business days.
Can Ultrasound Detect Cancer?
Ultrasound can identify suspicious masses and structural abnormalities, but a biopsy is usually needed to confirm or rule out cancer.
What Should I Wear To My Ultrasound?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that provides easy access to the abdominal area. You may be asked to change into a gown.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Our team is here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you take the next step toward better digestive health.