RUQ Ultrasound
When experiencing pain in the right upper quadrant (RUQ), which is the upper right quarter of the abdomen, it’s essential to look further into the possible underlying causes. This particular area contains several critical organs, including the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, right kidney and parts of the intestines. Because of its non-invasive nature and for other reasons outlined below, ultrasound imaging is typically considered to be appropriate as the first diagnostic test for those with right upper quadrant abdominal pain. Peace of Mind Imaging offers diagnostic imaging for RUQ in Strongsville, OH.
Common Symptoms Associated With RUQ
It’s helpful to know the most common symptoms associated with right upper quadrant abdominal pain. That way, if the situation presents itself, you can seek RUQ imaging services:
- Sharp pain
- Dull, persistent pain
- Throbbing or pulsating pain
- Cramping sensation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
Note that these symptoms may be chronic or acute, and there may be more not on this list. Just know that they should never be ignored. Seek professional help if you notice one or more of the above symptoms.
Why RUQ Ultrasound is the First Choice
For individuals who present with RUQ abdominal pain, ultrasound (US) abdomen is typically the first diagnostic test choice. This preference can be attributed to the following factors:
Non-invasive
Ultrasound doesn’t require any kind of invasive procedure. It doesn’t even use radiation. It utilizes sound waves in order to create the resulting digital images. This makes it ideal for patients in all circumstances, including youngsters and those who are pregnant.
No Radiation
Ultrasound doesn’t use any kind of radiation, and it doesn’t emit radiation into the area being examined. This makes it especially appealing for use on patients who are particularly vulnerable, such as those with underlying health conditions, immune system compromised and others.
Speed
With RUQ ultrasound in Strongsville, OH, results of the procedure are immediately available. The entire procedure usually takes only 30 minutes or so. Patients and doctors don’t have to wait weeks, days or even minutes to see what is going on with internal organs in the RUQ. Of course, decisive diagnosis would have to wait for further extensive examination, just like with any medical test. But the RUQ ultrasound can help to quickly determine if further testing is needed, or if there are no visible problems.
Visual Quality
The quality of output with RUQ ultrasound is exceptional. Images feature high contrast, high resolution and other features that make them easy to examine and understand by medical professionals.
Common Findings With RUQ Ultrasound
RUQ ultrasound has the ability to detect a variety of medical health concerns in the abdomen, such as:
Gallbladder Complications
Ultrasound can identify gallstones, which appear as hyperechoic (bright) structures within the gallbladder, often accompanied by shadowing. Inflammation of the gallbladder, or cholecystitis, can also be detected by visually assessing and/or measuring the thickness of the gallbladder wall, and the presence of pericholecystic fluid.
Liver Conditions
RUQ ultrasound is effective at diagnosing liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, and cirrhosis. It can reveal changes in liver size, texture, and the presence of lesions or masses. Ultrasound can also assess blood flow through the liver using Doppler techniques, providing even more insights into liver health.
Kidney Issues
Kidney issues such as infections or stones can also cause RUQ pain. RUQ ultrasound can aid medical professionals in identifying these conditions by visualizing the kidneys and detecting abnormalities such as hydronephrosis or renal masses.
The Process for RUQ Ultrasound
For both medical practitioner and patient, the process for RUQ ultrasound at Peace of Mind Imaging is straightforward, simple and speedy. The entire procedure is usually completed in about half an hour.
First comes the preparation, where the patient lies in a reclined position in a private room. Note that the patient may be asked to fast for a period of time before their appointment. This helps to ensure that the area has a clear view, unobstructed by food being digested.
The technician will apply a warmed gel to the skin. This gel ensures a smooth, gliding motion of the transducer and also facilitates transmission of the sound waves.
Finally, the technician slowly glides the handheld transducer over the area. The transducer emits sound waves that bounce off internal organs and create images on a monitor that both patient and technician can see. The images can then be sent to the patient’s physician for diagnosis.
At Peace of Mind Imaging, we offer RUQ ultrasound in Strongsville, OH and surrounding areas. Contact us today to book your appointment!
