When a patient has abdominal pain, ultrasound is often one of the first imaging tests a physician orders. It’s radiation-free and can evaluate several major organs in one visit. National Polytechnic College (NPCollege) trains future sonographers through our Diagnostic Medical Sonography Technician program at our Lakewood, California, campus. Here, we explain what abdominal sonography evaluates and the role sonographers play.
Key Takeaways
- Abdominal sonography uses sound waves to create real-time images without radiation.
- Exams typically cover the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, and abdominal aorta.
- Sonographers capture the images physicians use to diagnose conditions like gallstones and aneurysms.
- NPCollege prepares students for work through hands-on lab training and a clinical externship.
What Is Abdominal Sonography?
Abdominal sonography (or ultrasound) is a non-invasive exam of the upper abdomen. The sonographer applies gel to the skin and glides a handheld transducer over the area. Its high-frequency sound waves bounce off internal structures and organs, and the echoes form a live image on a monitor.
Like every medical exam, ultrasound does have limits. Bowel gas can obscure organs, and deeper organs may be harder to see, especially if blocked by air or bone. When images are unclear, physicians may order additional tests, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Which Organs Are Examined, and What Conditions Can Be Diagnosed?
A complete abdominal ultrasound surveys several organs and can be used to diagnose a range of conditions, including:
- Liver: Images can show fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, cysts, or masses.
- Gallbladder and bile ducts: Ultrasound is the go-to test for gallstones and gallbladder inflammation. It can also be used to take measurements of the bile ducts to help detect blockages.
- Pancreas: Though often hidden by bowel gas, it can show swelling from pancreatitis or masses.
- Spleen: An enlarged spleen may point to liver disease or a blood disorder.
- Kidneys and bladder: Exams identify stones and cysts, plus swelling caused by blocked urine flow.
- Aorta and abdominal vessels: Aortic measurements screen for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which is an abnormal enlargement of the aorta. An ultrasound may also include Doppler to check for blood flow.
Sonographers also look for free fluid and other abnormalities. These findings help doctors determine the next step in a patient’s care plan.
What Role Do Abdominal Sonographers Have?
Physicians rely on sonographers to get accurate, complete studies. As a sonographer, your work includes several key tasks:
- Selecting transducers and settings: You’ll use a curved, low-frequency transducer to reach deeper organs. Sonographers can then adjust depth and gain for each patient.
- Capturing standard views and measurements: Each image requested must follow specific protocols. This protocol includes taking specific images for each organ, along with measurements of structures like the bile duct and aorta.
- Documenting images: Sonographers label images and note findings so a radiologist can interpret the study.
- Supporting patients: Sonographers explain the procedure and keep patients comfortable.
A good sonographer helps physicians make accurate diagnoses without having to order repeat imaging.
Why Choose NP College?
Learning to perform abdominal ultrasound exams starts with understanding anatomy. Students then need practice using equipment and capturing clear images, along with the communication skills to help patients feel comfortable.
At NPCollege, our hybrid Diagnostic Medical Sonography Technician program connects that knowledge with hands-on experience. In Abdominal and Small Parts Ultrasound Imaging courses, students study how organs appear on ultrasound and the conditions that may affect them. In-person labs build on those online lessons. You’ll practice taking images and documenting findings for physician review.
Our ultrasound physics courses help students understand equipment controls and improve image quality. From there, supervised clinical experiences provide opportunities to apply their training and build confidence in patient care. You can earn your diploma in as few as 23 months or your associate degree in as few as 26 months.
With us, support also extends beyond the classroom. You can explore financial aid options and connect with Career Services for support as you prepare to pursue careers in medical imaging. These resources help our students plan for their education and the next step after graduation.
Take the First Step Toward a Career in Sonography
Are you ready to learn the skills behind abdominal sonography? At NPCollege in Lakewood, CA, you can enroll in our Diagnostic Medical Sonography Technician program. Contact us today to discuss our sonography program and admission requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Abdominal Sonography
How should I prepare for an abdominal ultrasound?
Most facilities ask patients to avoid eating or drinking for about eight hours beforehand. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You should also follow any other specific instructions from your doctor and ask them whether you should take your daily medications as usual.
Is an abdominal ultrasound painful?
Abdominal ultrasound is generally painless, although some patients may experience discomfort when pressure is applied to a tender area. If you have an inflamed gallbladder or other condition, you may feel slightly uncomfortable.
Do sonographers share results with patients?
No, sonographers generally don’t share a diagnosis. Their job is to capture and document images. A radiologist then interprets the study and sends a report to the ordering provider. The ordering provider reviews the results and discusses them with the patient. The timing varies by facility and clinical circumstances.
How is an abdominal ultrasound different from a CT scan?
Ultrasound uses sound waves to show structures in real time without radiation. CT uses X-rays to produce detailed cross-sectional images. Often, ultrasounds are the first choice for gallbladder and kidney concerns.
Do I need certification to perform an abdominal ultrasound?
It depends on the state. While some states don’t require sonographers to hold a license or certification for employment, many employers prefer candidates with professional credentials, such as the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) credential offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).