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Ultrasonography

Ultrasonography

Ultrasonography is an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the body's internal structures. It is a non-invasive and safe procedure that does not involve the use of ionizing radiation, making it widely used in various medical fields. Ultrasonography is used to study heart function, blood flow in the neck or extremities, certain conditions such as gallbladder disease, and fetal growth and development.
During an ultrasonography procedure, a handheld device called a...

Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation

Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation

Introduction
The abdominal examination is a cornerstone of clinical medicine, serving as a critical tool in diagnosing various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. It involves a systematic approach that includes inspection and auscultation, each with distinct yet complementary roles in assessing the abdomen. This article will delve into these two primary methods healthcare professionals use to examine the abdomen.
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Assessment of the Abdomen II: Percussion

Assessment of the Abdomen II: Percussion

Percussion is a fundamental technique used to assess the liver, spleen, and abdominal organs by tapping the abdomen and interpreting the resulting sounds. This method helps identify fluid, distention, and masses through variations in sound, such as the high-pitched tympany of air-filled areas and the dullness of solid masses. Understanding how to percuss these organs provides valuable information for healthcare professionals in diagnosing conditions early.
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Ultrasound I: Abdominal Ultrasonography

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Abdominal ultrasonography, commonly known as abdominal ultrasound, is a vital, non-invasive medical imaging technique widely used in healthcare.
Procedure:
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The abdominal ultrasound process begins with applying a special gel to the patient's skin over the abdomen. This gel enhances the...

Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 25, 2026

Observational Study Protocol for Repeated Clinical Examination and Critical Care Ultrasonography Within the Simple Intensive Care Studies

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Ultrasonic coronal scanning of left upper quadrant

P Hicken, E E Sauerbrei, P L Cooperberg

Journal of the Canadian Association of Radiologists

|June 1, 1981

Summary

Ultrasonography of the left upper quadrant is challenging due to gas. Specific scanning techniques, including coronal planes and patient positioning, improve visualization of abdominal structures.

Area of Science:

Medical Imaging
Diagnostic Ultrasound

Background:

The left upper quadrant (LUQ) of the abdomen presents a significant challenge for ultrasonographic examination.
Abundant gas in the stomach and splenic flexure commonly obscures deeper abdominal structures, limiting diagnostic accuracy.

Observation:

Standard longitudinal ultrasonographic scans are often ineffective in the LUQ.
Transverse scans from the left midaxillary line offer limited utility.
Real-time ultrasound equipment utilized in coronal planes, directed medially with the patient supine, enhances LUQ visualization.
Patient rotation to a right posterior oblique or right-side-down decubitus position can also aid conventional scanning.

Findings:

Coronal plane imaging and specific patient decubitus positions significantly improve visualization of LUQ structures obscured by gas.

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Last Updated: May 25, 2026

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These adjusted ultrasonographic techniques overcome common limitations in LUQ assessment.

Implications:

Improved LUQ ultrasonographic techniques enhance diagnostic capabilities for conditions affecting organs like the spleen, stomach, and pancreas.
These methods offer a more comprehensive non-invasive assessment of the LUQ, potentially reducing the need for alternative imaging modalities.