Why Have a Abdominal Ultrasound

Ultrasound scans are very common, and you may be familiar with the technology as it's often prescribed to expecting mothers so they can have a glimpse of their child and for the doctor to learn a lot of important information. Similarly, your Chicago, Oakbrook Terrace, and Park Ridge, IL, gastroenterologist can recommend an abdominal ultrasound to closely examine your abdominal organs in order to treat a wide variety of conditions. You can learn more by reading below and by reaching out directly to Dr. David Chua, Dr. Rajeev Nayar, and Dr. Albert Saporta of Summit Digestive and Liver Disease Specialists.

How It Works

Ultrasounds use sound waves to capture the images these create as they bounce off the organs inside of your body. These are very high-pitched, too much so for the human ear to hear, but they create echoes that can be used to form these images based on how long they take to travel back.

With this information, your doctor can see the structures inside your abdomen. There are a variety of conditions that can be examined by using an abdominal ultrasound, they can range from issues related to the liver, kidneys, stomach, and your appendix.

Considerations

The procedure is painless and can be performed relatively quickly, often in just around 30 minutes. You'll usually need to change into a hospital gown and remove jewelry and anything that can interfere with the ultrasound.

The technician then spreads a special gel on your abdomen that prevents air pockets from forming between your skin and the ultrasound device.

Fasting is also necessary prior to the procedure so that food and liquids don't affect the results of the test, your doctor will discuss with you the details.

Abdominal Ultrasound in Chicago, Oakbrook Terrace, and Park Ridge, IL

If you can benefit from an abdominal ultrasound and live in or near the areas of Chicago, Oakbrook Terrace, and Park Ridge, IL, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Chua, Dr. Nayar, and Dr. Saporta of Summit Digestive and Liver Disease Specialists by dialing (630) 889-9889.