Ultrasound of the pancreas is a non-invasive method of examination that is used when there is a suspicion of pathology in the functioning of this organ. This method makes it possible to assess its size, shape and characteristics. Usually, the ultrasound is performed after the initial examination to obtain the necessary anamnesis.
Ultrasound of the pancreas: indications
Ultrasound is used both as a preventive measure and when the patient complains about the organ's function. Indications include:
- Pain or a feeling of heaviness in the right/left subcostal region or in the upper part of the peritoneum.
- Periodic abdominal bloating, a bitter taste in the mouth, sudden loss of weight for no apparent reason.
- Frequent vomiting with or without enzyme impurities, pain in the area of the liver.
- Recurrent diarrhea and other digestive problems.
- Yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes or eyes without abdominal pain.
Note that the doctor may also refer you for a scan in other situations.
Contraindications for Pancreatic Ultrasound
There are no direct contraindications. The procedure is completely safe for the body and can even be performed on babies and the elderly. However, there are indirect contraindications. These include the presence of open wounds in the area being examined or various skin diseases. In this case, it is recommended to treat the person's existing pathologies first and then proceed with the examination.
Preparation for Pancreatic Ultrasound
Doctor's advice:
- Perform the procedure on an empty stomach. The procedure should be performed in the morning, you should stop eating 6 hours before going to bed.
- For one day do not eat spicy, fried, hot food, eggs in any form, as well as products that increase gas formation in the stomach (flour products, sweets, fresh fruit, milk, etc.).
In case of acute pain in the area of pancreas or gallbladder for immediate diagnosis, preliminary preparation is not required.
What can be detected by ultrasound
During the ultrasound of the pancreas in Kiev, the doctor evaluates the location, shape, size, structure of the organ, as well as the diameter of its duct. In addition, you can determine the level of blood supply (sufficient or disturbed), the state of the tissue (the presence of inflammation or calcium deposits), the level of free fluid, as well as the presence / absence of neoplasms of the pancreas. The doctor can also detect acute pancreatitis, congenital or acquired deformities of the organ, chronic inflammation, pancreatic tumors, etc.
References
- ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3831206/.
- ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7065990/.
- mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/abdominal-ultrasound/about/pac-20392738.
- mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pancreatitis/doctors-departments/ddc-20360239.
- mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pancreatic-cancer/multimedia/pancreatic-ultrasound/img-20312843.
F. A. Q.
With the help of ultrasound it is possible to detect any pathology of this organ. In addition, other tests are performed, thanks to which it is possible to make a correct diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment in time.
It should be performed on an empty stomach. The last meal is taken at noon, the examination is performed in the morning. It is also necessary to completely avoid spicy, salty, acidic food and products that can cause increased formation of gas for 1-2 days.
Patients feel a sharp pain in the upper abdomen, in the area of the ribs. It usually gets worse when you lie on your back. There may be attacks after eating. There may also be vomiting or nausea, fever, and a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen.
Yes, it can. If the patient has increased echogenicity, it indicates the consequences of chronic pancreatitis or the presence of stones. Low echogenicity usually indicates an acute form of the disease.
