Abdominal ultrasound is the test performed to identify changes in the abdomen, which uses high-frequency sound waves to view internal organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, uterus, ovary, and bladder, for example. .
The ultrasound can be of the total abdomen, which visualizes all solid or liquid-filled organs, but can also be specified as superior or inferior, to focus only on organs of the desired region, identifying diseases or alterations in these organs. Some of the main indications of ultrasound include:
- Identify the presence of tumors, cysts, nodules or masses in the abdomen;
- Observe the presence of stones in the gallbladder and urinary tract;
- Detect changes in the anatomy of the abdominal organs, which occur in some diseases;
- Identify swelling or suggestive changes in inflammation in the organs, such as fluid, blood or pus;
- Observe lesions in the tissues and muscles that make up the abdominal wall, such as abscesses or hernias.
In addition, when performed with the Doppler function, ultrasound is useful for identifying vessel blood flow, which is important for observing obstructions, thrombosis, narrowing, or dilatation of these vessels. Learn more about other types of ultrasound and how they are made.
However, this test is not an indicated method for the analysis of organs that contain air, such as intestines or stomach, because it is impaired by the presence of gases. Therefore, to look at organs of the digestive tract, other exams may be requested, such as endoscopy or colonoscopy, for example.
Ultrasound Price
Ultrasound can be done free of charge by SUS, with the appropriate medical indication, and may be covered by some health insurance plans. In particular, the price of abdominal ultrasound varies according to the location where it is performed and the details of the examination, which can cost an average between 100 and 300 reais. However, the price can also vary according to the type of ultrasound, becoming more expensive as they are associated forms of technology such as Doppler or 4D ultrasound for example ..
How is done
Ultrasound examination is performed by passing the device, called a transducer, into the area to be evaluated. This transducer emits sound waves in the abdominal region, which forms images that will be projected onto a computer screen. During the examination, the doctor may request movement to some side or hold your breath as a way to facilitate the visualization of a specific organ.
To facilitate the conduction of the sound waves and the slip of the apparatus in the abdomen, a colorless gel and the base of water is used, which does not cause any health risk. In addition, it should be remembered that this test has no contraindications, is painless and does not use harmful radiation to health, however, it needs some preparation to improve its effectiveness.
Ultrasound can also be performed in other regions of the body, such as breasts, thyroid or joints, for example, and can rely on new technologies for better effectiveness, such as 4D ultrasound. Learn more about other types of ultrasound and how they are made.
Preparation for the exam
To perform the ultrasound examination, you must:
- To leave the bladder full, drinking 4 to 6 glasses of water before the examination, which allows filling of the bladder for a better evaluation of its walls and its contents;
- Fast for at least 6 to 8 hours, so the gallbladder is full, and it is easier to evaluate it. In addition, fasting decreases the amount of gas in the intestine, which can make it difficult to see the inside of the abdomen.
In people with high gas or constipation, the use of 40 drops of Dimethicone may be recommended before the main meals the day before or 1 hour before the test.
Does abdominal ultrasound detect pregnancy?
Ultrasound of the total abdomen is not the most indicated to detect or follow a pregnancy, and the recommended one is the ultrasound of the pelvis, that visualizes in more detail the organs of this region, like uterus and ovaries in the women or the prostate in the man, for example.
To detect pregnancy in its initial phase, you can also indicate the transvaginal ultrasound, which is done with the introduction of the device into the vagina and visualize more clearly the parts of the uterus and its attachments. Learn more about when it is indicated and how the transvaginal ultrasound is done.
