General ultrasound: Abdomen, pelvis, breast, thyroid, other

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Abdominal ultrasound is a type of imaging test. It is used to look at organs in the abdomen, including the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. The blood vessels that lead to some of these organs, such as the inferior vena cava and aorta, can also be examined with ultrasound.

You will be lying down for the procedure. A clear, water-based conducting gel is applied to the skin over the abdomen. This helps with the transmission of the sound waves. A handheld probe called a transducer is then moved over the abdomen.

You may need to change position so that the health care provider can look at different areas. 

You may also need to hold your breath for short periods during the exam.

Most of the time, the test takes less than 30 minutes.

 A pelvic ultrasound is a noninvasive diagnostic exam that produces images that are used to assess organs and structures within the female pelvis. A pelvic ultrasound allows quick visualization of the female pelvic organs and structures including the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

You will be given special preparation instructions for the ultrasound this usually includes EAT/DRINK : Drink a minimum of 24 ounces of clear fluid at least one hour before your appointment. Do not empty your bladder until after the exam.

A breast ultrasound is a diagnostic test used to evaluate signs and symptoms of breast lumps or pain and evaluate findings seen on a mammogram or MRI exam. Ultrasound, also called sonography, works by using sound waves to create images of body tissue.

Why Is a Breast Ultrasound Performed? Your doctor may perform a breast ultrasound if a suspicious lump is discovered in your breast. An ultrasound helps your doctor determine whether the lump is a fluid-filled cyst or a solid tumor. It also allows them to determine the location and size of the lump.

Thyroid ultrasound uses sound waves to produce pictures of the thyroid gland within the neck. It does not use ionizing radiation and is commonly used to evaluate lumps or nodules found during a routine physical or other imaging exam. This procedure requires little to no special preparation.

A thyroid ultrasound may be ordered if a thyroid function test is abnormal or if your doctor feels a growth on your thyroid while examining your neck. An ultrasound can also check an underactive or overactive thyroid gland. You may receive a thyroid ultrasound as part of an overall physical exam.

Soft Tissue Mass Ultrasound is an exam that evaluates palpable superficial nodules with sound waves. It can assist in diagnosing problems, such as cysts or lipomas.