Abdominal ultrasound (USG)
Abdominal ultrasound is one of the most widely used diagnostic methods in modern medicine. This procedure is not only painless and harmless but also highly informative, allowing doctors to see internal organs in real time. Abdominal ultrasound is a quick examination that enables specialists to assess the condition of abdominal organs without invasive procedures.
Dr. Vladimirs Šalajevs
Dr. Jeļena Dubinčaka
Dr. Alma Egle
Highly qualified specialists at the “Republikas laukums Clinic” in Riga perform abdominal ultrasound in a comfortable manner to obtain a detailed view of the abdominal organs.
Abdominal ultrasound
Ultrasound uses sound waves with a frequency above the human hearing threshold. These waves are directed at the body, reflected from various tissues, and form an image. Tissues have different sound permeability, which allows them to be distinguished in the image.
With the help of the USG method, it is possible to assess the organs’:
- size;
- shape;
- structure;
- location.
During the procedure, the doctor moves the probe across the surface of the abdomen, obtaining images from different angles. This way, all abdominal organs are assessed:
- liver;
- gallbladder and bile ducts;
- pancreas;
- spleen;
- kidneys;
- bladder.
The duration of abdominal USG is usually 15–30 minutes. The procedure is painless and causes no discomfort. If necessary, the doctor may ask the patient to change body position or take deep breaths to better visualize certain organs.
Preparation for abdominal USG examination
Special preparation is required for an abdominal USG examination. Patients are usually advised not to eat for at least 6–8 hours before the procedure, except for water intake. Daily medications may be taken with water.
An empty stomach and intestines facilitate organ visualization. Sometimes, a special diet is recommended before the examination, avoiding foods that promote gas formation.
It is also important to inform the doctor about all medications taken daily. In some cases, such as kidney or bladder examination, the patient must arrive with a full bladder. This ensures better organ visualization and more accurate diagnostics.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an abdominal USG examination take?
A standard abdominal ultrasound usually takes 15–20 minutes. During this time, the doctor examines the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, and other abdominal organs.
If a more detailed organ study is needed or there are anatomical peculiarities, the procedure may last up to 30 minutes. More complex cases may require additional time.
Including preparation and result issuance, the visit may last approximately 30–40 minutes.
How to properly prepare for an abdominal USG examination?
For an abdominal USG examination, you must arrive on an empty stomach – do not eat for at least 6–8 hours before the procedure. This condition is important for better visualization of the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.
The night before, it is recommended to avoid foods that promote gas formation – legumes, cabbage, fresh fruits. Such products may hinder organ visualization.
If the examination includes the bladder, you must arrive with a full bladder. This means drinking about 1 liter of fluid 1–2 hours before the procedure.
How much does abdominal ultrasound cost at “Republikas laukums Clinic”?
Abdominal ultrasound at “Republikas laukums Clinic” costs €75.00.
