An abdomen and urinary tract scan is a diagnostic imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the abdomen, pelvis, and urinary tract. It is a non-invasive procedure that can help diagnose a range of conditions affecting these areas.
During the scan, a technician will apply a gel to your abdomen and pelvis and use a wand-like device called a transducer to emit sound waves into your body. The sound waves bounce off internal organs and tissues and create images on a computer screen that the technician can use to evaluate the health of your organs and identify any abnormalities.
A doctor may recommend an abdomen and urinary tract scan for a variety of reasons, including:
Abdominal pain: If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your abdomen, a scan can help identify the underlying cause.
Unexplained weight loss: If you have lost weight without trying, a scan can help identify any abnormalities in your abdominal organs that may be contributing to the weight loss.
Blood in the urine: If you are experiencing blood in your urine, a scan can help identify any structural abnormalities in the urinary tract that may be causing the bleeding.
Enlarged prostate: If you are a man and have an enlarged prostate, a scan can help evaluate the size and shape of the prostate gland.
Abnormal liver function: If blood tests suggest that your liver is not functioning properly, a scan can help evaluate the health of the liver and identify any abnormalities.
FAQs
Is an abdomen and urinary tract scan painful?
No, an abdomen and urinary tract scan is a painless procedure that does not involve any needles or injections.
How long does the scan take?
The length of the scan can vary depending on the area being evaluated, but it typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes to complete.
Do I need to prepare for the scan?
Your doctor may provide specific instructions for preparing for the scan, such as fasting for a certain period of time before the test.
Is the scan safe?
Yes, an abdomen and urinary tract scan is a safe procedure that does not expose the patient to any radiation.
Will I receive any results immediately after the scan?
No, the images will need to be reviewed by a radiologist and the results will be provided to your doctor, who will then discuss them with you.
In conclusion, an abdomen and urinary tract scan is a valuable diagnostic tool that can help identify a range of conditions affecting the abdomen, pelvis, and urinary tract. If you are experiencing symptoms related to these areas or have abnormal test results, talk to your doctor about whether an abdomen and urinary tract scan may be appropriate for you. It is a safe and painless procedure that can provide important information about your health.