Full abdominal ultrasound includes a complete examination of the abdominal organs and their dependent structures, including the liver, gall bladder, spleen, pancreas, central abdominal vessels, and kidneys. ### **Use of abdominal ultrasound** In general, the organs inside the abdomen are divided into three groups: 1. Hollow organs containing air and gas (stomach, barric intestine, large intestine) 2. Solid organs such as liver, spleen, etc. 3. Hollow organs containing fluids such as bladder and gall bladder Ultrasound is mostly used to examine solid and hollow organs containing liquid. Air or gas in hollow organs such as the stomach prevent ultrasound by reflecting disturbing sound waves. Therefore, the inside of the stomach and intestines cannot be seen under normal conditions, but in some diseases, the sonographer can examine the wall of the stomach and intestines and their thickness by performing special maneuvers. **For more information on pregnancy ultrasounds, you can contact Dr. Seif's radiology and ultrasound center. Dr. Saif's ultrasound center contact numbers: 88553310** ### **Preparation for abdominal ultrasound** - To perform abdominal ultrasound alone (without pelvic ultrasound), there is no need to drink liquids and you must fast for at least 8 hours (usually 8-12 hours), but drinking simple liquids such as water and tea does not cause any problems. - The consumption of fatty foods such as butter, eggs, etc. is strictly prohibited. Because these foods cause the gallbladder to contract and make the examination of the gallbladder difficult or impossible. - A lot of fasting gas causes many problems in examining some parts of the abdomen, especially the pancreas and the middle part of the abdomen, especially in obese and overweight people. Some elderly people constantly have the problem of abdominal bloating and intestinal gas. In cases where they need to do an abdominal ultrasound in a non-emergency manner, these people should refrain from consuming foods that cause bloating and intestinal gas production a few days before the examination. Among these foods are legumes (beans, soybeans, chickpeas, cobs, beans, lentils, vegetables, etc.), garlic and onions, coffee, cabbage, corn, and plums. - Remember not to use carbonated drinks before the ultrasound. C. Chewing gum can also aggravate intestinal bloating. Sometimes, due to severe intestinal gas, the radiologist requests you to return for an ultrasound a few days later, following the points mentioned above (sometimes even taking anti-flatulent medicine) so that a better result can be obtained. - It is better to wear loose and comfortable clothing so that it is easier to pull it up and free the entire surface of the abdomen for examination. - At the beginning of the ultrasound, you lie down on your back on the examination bed, and sometimes it is necessary to turn to the left or right side to complete the examination. Please lie completely on your side when turning to either side and collect your body and avoid pulling your arms and legs, which tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall. Do not return to the original position until the radiologist asks you again.