Abdominal Imaging
Our center utilizes a multidisciplinary team approach to your healthcare, which means that patients benefit from the combined expertise of physicians who have the knowledge, perspective, and experience to address all aspects of your complete gastroenterological care. We offer the most advanced diagnostic tools and techniques for a wide variety of gastroenterological conditions. We also offer a full range of diagnostic procedures, including the convenience of in-house abdominal imaging.
Of all the diagnostic imaging modalities (US, MRI, CT) available, ultrasound is normally the first procedure used due to ease in availability and low expense compared to the other diagnostics. Ultrasound is non-invasive and can be repeated immediately if necessary. It is an excellent way to visualize soft organs (liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen and kidneys) as well as blood vessels.
Ultrasounds work by using high frequency waves to create images from the abdominal organs. It is very safe and accurate and there is no radiation involved.
An abdominal ultrasound can uncover many of the following conditions:
- Liver disease: ultrasound can uncover a simple liver cyst to liver tumors; determine the size of the liver, and the texture of the tissue (fatty liver, cirrhosis, hemangiomas)
- Gall bladder: ultrasound can uncover a stone (gall stone) or stricture; determine the thickness of the gallbladder wall, show any inflammation (Cholecystitis), and size of the organ
- Intra and extra hepatic bile ducts: ultrasound can determine the diameter and anatomic location of the ducts, and also determine if there are any strictures, stones, or dilation
- Kidney: ultrasound can show the size and shape of the kidneys, any sign of infections, tumors, or cysts. It can provide detailed information such as the size, number, and locations of any cysts and tumors.
- Other organs can be visualized by ultrasound: the spleen (size, shape), any abnormal fluid retention in belly (ascites), aorta and large veins.
Gastroenterology Associates strives to meet the individual needs of patients with gastroenterological conditions of any kind. Contact us if you are experiencing gastrointestinal issues that have not yet been addressed by our physicians.
