Abdominal Ultrasound in Cairo
A painless scan of the organs inside your abdomen. It is usually the first test requested for abdominal pain, abnormal liver blood tests or suspected gallstones, because it shows a great deal without any radiation.
What the scan covers
The liver, gallbladder and bile ducts, pancreas, spleen, both kidneys and the abdominal aorta — with the bladder included where the question calls for it.
It shows the size, shape and texture of each organ, and can identify gallstones, fatty change in the liver, cysts, kidney stones or obstruction, fluid in the abdomen, and widening of the aorta.
Why it might be requested
Common reasons include:
- Pain in the upper abdomen, particularly after fatty meals
- Abnormal liver function tests
- Suspected gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Suspected kidney stones, or reduced kidney function
- A lump that can be felt in the abdomen
- Following up a known finding, such as a liver cyst or fatty liver
How to prepare
Do not eat for 6 to 8 hours beforehand. This matters more than it sounds: food empties the gallbladder, and a contracted gallbladder can hide stones that would otherwise be obvious.
Plain water is fine, and take any regular medication as normal — do not skip a prescribed medicine in order to fast. If you have diabetes, or fasting is difficult for any reason, tell us when you book. If your scan includes the pelvis, you will be asked to arrive with a full bladder.
What happens during the scan
You lie on your back, warmed gel is applied and the probe is moved over your abdomen with gentle pressure. You will be asked to take a breath in and hold it at times — that drops the liver and gallbladder below the ribs where they can be seen properly. It takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
Understanding the results
Dr. Doaa reviews the images as the scan is performed, explains what she sees during the visit, and issues a written report you take with you.
Where ultrasound gives a complete answer, nothing further is needed. Where it does not — bowel gas obscuring part of the view, or a finding that needs better characterisation — the report says so and recommends the appropriate next test, usually CT or MRI.
Common questions
Do I really have to fast?
For a gallbladder or upper abdominal question, yes — eating empties the gallbladder and stones are much harder to see in a contracted one. If the scan is only of the kidneys or bladder, fasting is not needed.Can I drink water?
Yes, plain water is fine and helps. Avoid tea, coffee, juice and milk — they all count as food here.Should I stop my regular medication?
No. Take your prescribed medicines as usual, with a little water.Is it safe?
Yes. Sound waves rather than X-rays, no ionising radiation, and it can be repeated as often as needed. It is safe in pregnancy.When will I get my report?
The findings are explained during the same visit and you leave with a written report.
This page is general information about the scan, not medical advice about your own case. Bring any questions to your appointment.