Upper and lower abdomen ultrasound
An ultrasound is an examination that visualises the inside of a person. This technique uses sound waves. A transducer (a type of microphone) transmits the sound waves. These waves are converted into moving images that can be seen on a monitor. Photographs are taken of these images. With ultrasound, it is possible to detect any abnormalities of your organs in your abdomen.
Preparation and instructions
An ultrasound of the upper abdomen
To prevent intestinal contents from affecting imaging, an ultrasound of your upper abdomen requires your intestines to be empty. It is therefore important that you follow the instructions below carefully.
The day before the examination:
In the evening after midnight: NOT to eat, drink or smoke anything.
The day of the examination:
If you have an appointment after 1pm, you may have a light breakfast of two rusks and a cup of tea the morning of the examination at 8am. After the examination, you may eat again.
A lower abdominal ultrasound
You should come to the appointment with a full bladder. If this is not the case, the radiologist will not be able to examine your lower abdomen. This means drinking several glasses of water and not going to the toilet about one hour before the examination. If you follow a special diet, for example a diabetic diet, please contact the doctor who requested the examination.
The study
You will be asked to take a seat on the examination table. The radiologist applies a cold gel to your upper abdomen. Using a transducer, the radiologist scans your abdomen. Via the monitor, the radiologist checks for any abnormalities. This examination is not painful. Note: if some gel gets on your clothes, it can be washed out easily.
Duration of the study
15 minutes
Results of the study
The results of the examination will be sent within 24 hours to the doctor who requested the examination. Your (primary) physician will inform you further.
