Diagnosing gallstones.
Doctors can use several high-tech procedures to identify the presence gallstones, in a person showing potential gallstone symptoms.
ULTRASOUND- common procedure used to detect stones is an ultrasound. A technician or doctor will pass a device emitting sound waves over the abdomen, just like how a pregnant woman might receive an ultra sound. The sound waves bounce off organs and other solid structures creating an accurate image of a persons internal organs. If gallstones are present they will usually show up on the ultra sound.
Doctors can use several high-tech procedures to identify the presence gallstones, in a person showing potential gallstone symptoms.
ULTRASOUND- common procedure used to detect stones is an ultrasound. A technician or doctor will pass a device emitting sound waves over the abdomen, just like how a pregnant woman might receive an ultra sound. The sound waves bounce off organs and other solid structures creating an accurate image of a persons internal organs. If gallstones are present they will usually show up on the ultra sound.
BLOOD TESTS- Another procedure used to detect the presence of gallstones is a blood test. Blood tests revealing a pattern of abnormal liver enzymes indicate that the bile ducts could be blocked or obstructed by gallstones.
X-RAY- Specialized x-rays can also be used to detect gallstones. The x-rays penetrate soft tissue and reflect back off of solid high density substances such as bone. Because Gallstones are much more solid and dense than the surrounding soft tissue, the can be present in an x-ray.
CT-SCAN- Another test is a computed topography scan (CT-scan). This type of scan offer a detailed image. Contrast substances or dyes can also be added to help outline the bile ducts.
Both ultrasound and CT scanning techniques help detect an obstruction of the bile ducts If there is an obstruction present, doctors can see if it is due to a gallstone or not. The ultrasound and CT techniques are 50% to 60% sensitive, but another test called a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be better.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING- MRI's use radiology to create a detailed image of the internal structure of a persons body. This technique is effective for revealing gallstones due to its superior internal imaging abilities.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING- MRI's use radiology to create a detailed image of the internal structure of a persons body. This technique is effective for revealing gallstones due to its superior internal imaging abilities.
There are also more in-depth tests that can be used to provide the more specific information needed to make a firm diagnosis.