Preparation for ultrasound of the liver
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
- Preparation of the patient for ultrasound of the liver. It is desirable to have an 8-hour fast before the study. If there is a risk of dehydration, you can give clean water. If there is an emergency, you can conduct a study without preparation. Children - if the clinical conditions permit - should not eat or drink anything for 3 hours before the study.
In many patients, additional information can be obtained by carrying out a radiograph of the abdomen in a direct projection in the patient's position on the back. In the presence of acute pain, radiography should be performed in the standing position of the patient, and it is also necessary to examine the area of the diaphragm to exclude the presence of subdiaphragmatic air from the perforated hollow organ.
- Position of the patient. The patient lies on his back. Apply the gel randomly first to the right upper abdomen, then to the rest of the abdomen as the study proceeds.
- Select the sensor. For adults, use a 3.5 MHz sensor, use a 5 MHz sensor for children and lean adults.
- Adjustment of sensitivity of the device.
The sensitivity level of the device is set in such a way that the diaphragm is clearly visible; The liver (in the case of the norm) should look uniform throughout the depth. It should be possible to clearly visualize normal tubular structures (portal vein with bright contours and hepatic veins without bright contours). Hepatic arteries or bile ducts are not visualized if they are not enlarged.
Before scanning a specific area, ask the patient to inhale and hold breath while inhaling.
[