Abdominal Ultrasound: What To Think About

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What To Think About

Additional tests, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan, may be needed to investigate abnormal ultrasound results. For more information, see the medical test Computed Tomography (CT) Scan.
X-rays are not recommended during pregnancy because of the risk of damage to the developing baby (fetus). Because ultrasound is safe during pregnancy, it generally is used instead of an abdominal X-ray if a pregnant woman's abdomen needs to be evaluated.
On rare occasions, gallstones may not be detected by ultrasound. Other imaging tests may be done if gallstones are suspected but not seen on the ultrasound. For more information, see the medical tests Gallbladder Scan, Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP), and Abdominal X-ray.
Using abdominal ultrasound, a doctor can usually distinguish among a simple fluid-filled cyst, a solid tumor, or another type of mass that needs further evaluation. If a solid tumor is found, abdominal ultrasound cannot determine whether it is cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign). A biopsy may be needed if a tumor is found. Ultrasound may be used during the biopsy to help guide the placement of the needle.
Ultrasound is less expensive than other tests, such as a CT scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, that also can provide a picture of the abdominal organs. However, for some problems, such as abdominal masses or an injury, a CT scan or MRI may be a more appropriate test. Also, these tests may be done if the abdominal ultrasound is normal but abdominal pain persists. For more information, see the medical tests Computed Tomography (CT) Scan and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Abdomen.
A pelvic ultrasound will be used to produce a picture of the lower abdominal (pelvic) organs and other structures inside the pelvis. For more information, see the medical test Pelvic Ultrasound.

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Last updated:	January 17, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology, Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

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