Abdomen Ultrasound Ultrasound is the use of high-frequency sound waves to image organs and other structures inside the body. A hand held device, called a transducer, is placed onto the skin surface near the area of interest, and sends out sound waves and “listens” as the sound waves bounce off objects and return to the transducer. Sound waves are then converted into an image that is seen on the ultrasound machine. This image can be frozen and stored for diagnostic use. At Sparrow Hospital, all transducers are high-resolution to ensure the most detailed and diagnostic image. One of the greatest benefits of ultrasound imaging is that there are no known health risks. During this test, the ultrasound technologist, known as a sonographer, will collect images and information on the major organs of the abdomen, including kidneys, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and blood vessels. Ultrasound imaging of the abdomen can be used: To identify enlarged or inflamed organs. To identify masses or cancers To locate stones in the gallbladder or kidney To determine if there are blood vessel anomalies, such as aneurysms, blockages, or narrowing of the vessels. To spot an inflamed appendix. To assess blood flow in the abdomen and the abdominal organs by use of Doppler Ultrasound. To aid in invasive procedures such as biopsies of organs or tissue. To prepare for the Abdomen Ultrasound, please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. Glasses, hearing aids, and dentures can be worn during the exam. Most abdominal ultrasounds are performed in the morning. To ensure the best results it is necessary to fast for a minimum of 8 hours and consume a low-fat meal the evening before your scheduled appointment. If you have medications that are a part of your daily routine you may take them as directed with a few sips of water. During the ultrasound exam, a gel is placed on the skin near the area of interest. The transducer is then placed directly onto the gel and moved around to obtain the necessary images. The gel acts as a conductor allowing the sound waves to penetrate into the body. The gel is water-soluble and non-irritating to the skin. This procedure can provide valuable information to both you and your health care provider regarding the status of the organs in your abdomen. When the technologist has completed all the necessary scans and images, the exam is complete. Once the exam is complete, you will be free to leave. You can return to your regular schedule with no interruptions. A report will be generated in 48 hours and sent to your physician. If you need to take copies of the ultrasound exam to your doctor, films can be obtained at our centralized Film Library. If you have any questions, please contact our Ultrasound Department in the Sparrow Professional Building at 517.364.5645. The Sparrow Radiology Ultrasound Department is accredited by the American College of Radiology and all sonographers are registered as Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. For more information about the field of Ultrasound, visit American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.