[Sonographic diagnosis of gallbladder diseases]

In a prospective study of 174 patients referred for cholecystography, an ultrasound study (gray scale technique) was also carried out and the results of the two examinations were compared. The ultrasound examination served to demonstrate a normal gall bladder in 96% of the patients and, based on typical sonographic findings, permitted the diagnosis of cholecystolithiasis in 97%. The ultrasound examination can be carried out prior to the X-ray study as a screening method and has particular value in the work-up of patients with unclear right upper quadrant abdominal pain.