toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Abdominal ultrasound

Abdominal ultrasound

An abdominal ultrasound uses reflected sound waves to produce a picture of the organs and other structures in the upper abdomen. Sometimes a special ultrasound is done for a closer look at a specific organ, such as a kidney ultrasound.

An ultrasound does not use X-rays or other types of radiation. During an abdominal ultrasound, a small handheld unit called a transducer is gently moved over the belly. A computer converts the reflected sound waves into a picture shown on a TV screen.

An abdominal ultrasound may help find problems of the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, abdominal aorta, and kidneys.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.