Ultrasonographic cholecystography

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Gallbladder ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging method based on the use of ultrasound waves that allows assessment of the shape, size, position and structure of the gallbladder, as well as its contents.

The examination allows evaluation of the gallbladder wall and detection of gallstones, polypoid lesions, biliary sludge and other structural changes. When necessary, gallbladder motility and changes in its volume over time may also be assessed, depending on the examination protocol.

Gallbladder ultrasound can provide important information when evaluating abdominal pain and other symptoms associated with the biliary system, as well as for monitoring previously diagnosed conditions.

The results are interpreted by the physician based on the ultrasound findings, the patient's symptoms, medical history and the results of other investigations.

Indications

• pain or discomfort in the right upper abdomen
• abdominal pain, especially after eating fatty foods
• recurrent nausea or vomiting
• heaviness or discomfort after meals
• persistent bitter taste in the mouth
• suspected gallstone disease
• suspected gallbladder inflammation
• suspected gallbladder polyps or other lesions
• changes in the gallbladder wall
• suspected bile stasis or biliary sludge
• abnormal liver function tests or other parameters associated with the biliary system
• monitoring of previously diagnosed gallbladder conditions
• dynamic assessment of the gallbladder at the physician's recommendation
• preventive examination

Procedure

The patient lies on their back. A special gel is applied to the abdominal area, after which the physician moves the ultrasound transducer over the gallbladder and examines it in different planes. When necessary, the patient may be asked to change position or perform simple maneuvers.

For a functional examination, measurements may be taken before and after food intake or a choleretic stimulus, according to the examination protocol.

The procedure is non-invasive and generally painless.

Limitations

The quality of the examination may be affected by intestinal gas, excess body weight, anatomical features and insufficient gallbladder distension.

Some abnormalities cannot be fully characterized by ultrasound alone. Depending on the clinical situation, laboratory tests, CT, MRI or MR cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) may be required.

Contraindications

There are no absolute contraindications. Gallbladder ultrasound can be performed in patients of any age and repeated for follow-up when necessary.

If there are skin lesions or inflammation, infection or significant tenderness in the examination area, the procedure may need to be adapted or postponed.

Advantages

• non-invasive and painless
• no ionizing radiation
• real-time visualization of the gallbladder
• detection of gallstones, biliary sludge and polypoid lesions
• assessment of the gallbladder wall
• assessment of gallbladder motility as part of an appropriate examination protocol
• can be repeated when necessary
• suitable for patients of different age groups

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/gallbladder-ultrasound
https://radiopaedia.org/articles/gallbladder-ultrasound
https://www.verywellhealth.com/diagnosis-of-gallbladder-disease-4163874
https://www.acep.org/sonoguide/basic/gallbladder/

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any pain or exacerbation of symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic testing and treatment. Only a qualified medical professional can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate course of treatment. To obtain the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use various methods and units of measurement for similar tests.