An abdominal ultrasound produces a picture of the organs and other structures in the upper abdomen. A Doppler ultrasound study may be part of an abdominal ultrasound examination.

Abdominal ultrasound imaging is performed to evaluate the:

• kidneys
• liver
• gallbladder
• pancreas
• spleen
• abdominal aorta and other blood vessels of the abdomen

Ultrasound is used to help diagnose a variety of conditions, such as:

• abdominal pain or distention.
•  abnormal liver function.
• enlarged abdominal organ.
• stones in the gallbladder or kidney.
• an aneurysm in the aorta.