An abdominal ultrasound uses reflected sound waves to produce a picture of the organs and other structures in the upper abdomen. Sometimes a specialized ultrasound is ordered for a detailed evaluation of a specific organ, such as a liver ultrasound. An abdominal ultrasound can:
Check the size, shape and position of the liver.
Evaluate Ascites and other problems of the liver, including liver masses, cirrhosis, fat deposits in the liver (called fatty liver), or abnormal liver function tests.
Detect gallstones, inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), or blocked bile ducts.
Find out the size of an enlarged spleen and look for damage or disease.
Detect problems with the pancreas, such as pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer.
Find out whether a mass in any of the abdominal organs (such as the liver) is a solid tumor or a simple fluid-filled cyst.
Look for fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity (ascites). An ultrasound also may be done to guide the needle during a procedure to remove fluid from the abdominal cavity (paracentesis).
Guide the placement of a needle or other instrument during a biopsy.