Abdominal Ultrasound - What Doctors Are Looking For

Abdominal Ultrasound: What Doctors Are Looking For

By Dr. Pham Van Thoi - Family Medical Practice Vietnam 

When your doctor suggests an abdominal ultrasound, it’s natural to wonder what they are trying to check. In simple terms, this is a very common test that allows doctors to look at the organs inside the abdomen. It is safe, painless, and does not involve radiation.

Understanding what the test looks for can help make the experience feel more comfortable and less uncertain.

What Happens During an Abdominal Ultrasound?

An abdominal ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of internal organs. During the scan, a small handheld device is moved across the abdomen with the help of a gel. The process is non-invasive and usually takes only a short time.

Despite its simplicity, ultrasound can provide valuable information about multiple organs at once.

Which Organs Are Examined?

Doctors usually examine the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, and spleen. In some cases, parts of the intestines and major blood vessels can also be seen. Each of these structures provides useful information that helps explain symptoms or detect early changes.

The liver is one of the key organs assessed. Doctors look for fatty changes, early signs of cirrhosis, or any abnormal masses. The gallbladder is another common focus, as it is often related to abdominal pain, and ultrasound is very effective in detecting gallstones or inflammation.

The kidneys are evaluated for stones or blockage of urine flow, which can explain pain or infection. The pancreas can be more difficult to see because of its position, but doctors still assess it for inflammation or other abnormalities when possible. The spleen is also reviewed, and if it is enlarged, it may suggest infection or certain blood-related conditions.

Doctors also take a brief look at major blood vessels, especially the abdominal aorta, to check for abnormal dilatation (aneurysm). Although patients may not always be aware of this part of the examination, it can sometimes be an important and even life-saving finding.

Can Ultrasound Show Intestinal Problems?

Ultrasound can provide some information about the intestines, although it is not the main test for bowel problems. In some cases, it may show signs of inflammation, thickening of the bowel wall, or blockage. It can be helpful when there is concern about conditions such as appendicitis. However, gas in the intestines can limit visibility, so additional imaging may still be needed.

When Is an Abdominal Ultrasound Recommended?

An abdominal ultrasound is commonly recommended when patients present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, either acute or chronic, as well as bloating or digestive discomfort.

It is also useful when there are abnormal laboratory findings, particularly related to liver or kidney function, helping to identify possible underlying causes.

In many cases, ultrasound is performed when doctors suspect conditions involving the abdominal organs, including liver diseases such as fatty liver or cirrhosis, gallstones or biliary problems, and kidney stones or urinary obstruction.

The test may also be used for further evaluation in situations such as jaundice, suspected abdominal masses, or when there is concern about fluid or infection within the abdomen.

In addition, abdominal ultrasound is often included in routine health check-ups or used to monitor known conditions over time.

Because it is safe, non-invasive, and readily available, ultrasound is commonly used as a first-line imaging test in a wide range of clinical situations.

Are There Any Limitations?

Like any medical test, ultrasound has its limitations. Factors such as body build or gas in the intestines can affect how clearly certain organs can be seen. When more detailed evaluation is required, additional imaging such as CT or MRI may be recommended.

Final Thoughts

An abdominal ultrasound can be thought of as a first look inside the body. It helps detect potential problems early and guides the next steps in care. Understanding its purpose can make the experience feel more straightforward and less worrying.

Dr. Pham Van Thoi is a diagnostic imaging physician at Family Medical Practice in Ho Chi Minh City, with over 20 years of experience in ultrasonography and diagnostic imaging.

He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree with distinction from the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City and completed advanced training in ultrasound and diagnostic imaging at Pham Ngoc Thach Medical University. He also holds the International Certificate in Radiology Fundamentals from Radiology Across Borders in collaboration with the University of British Columbia (UBC) Continuing Professional Development.

Dr. Thoi is known for his careful, thorough approach and his commitment to accurate, high-quality diagnostic imaging in support of patient care.

FMP Healthcare Group operates medical centers in major cities including HCMC, Ha Noi and Da Nang, offering consultations with international doctors, check-up centers and emergency ambulance services.

Visit Family Medical Practice in Ho Chi Minh City to consult with Dr. Pham Van Thoi.

To book an appointment, please call (028) 3744 2000 (FMP - Thao Dien), or email d2.reception@vietnammedicalpractice.com