Ultrasound (Sonography)

Ultrasound — also known as sonography — is a well-established and gentle diagnostic method used to visualize internal organs. It uses high-frequency sound waves that are completely painless and involve no radiation exposure.

The examination is performed using a small handheld device that is moved over the skin. This allows us to assess organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, or certain sections of the bowel — safely, comfortably, and without complication.

Yes. Ultrasound is completely painless and does not involve any radiation exposure. For this reason, it is also used during pregnancy and for regular monitoring of organs. It is a very safe procedure that has been successfully used for decades.

In most cases, no special preparation is required. However, we recommend:

• No food for 6 hours before the examination; avoid large meals
• Avoid carbonated beverages, as gas in the intestines can affect image quality
• Wear comfortable clothing so that the abdomen can be easily exposed

If any special preparation is required, we will of course inform you personally in advance.

The examination usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the clinical question and the number of organs being assessed. We make sure you feel comfortable throughout the procedure and take the time needed if the examination takes a little longer.

In most cases, we can provide you with an initial assessment immediately after the examination. If a more detailed evaluation is required, we will discuss the results with you promptly — either in person or digitally, depending on your preference.

Yes. Ultrasound is a very helpful tool for identifying possible causes of abdominal symptoms. It allows us, among other things, to:

• assess the liver and gallbladder, for example in cases of pain or abnormal blood test results
• detect inflammation of the pancreas or malignant changes
• determine whether fluid has accumulated in the abdominal cavity
• evaluate the bowel wall in chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis

Ultrasound is gentle, safe, and completely painless, and is often a first step in better understanding abdominal complaints. For assessing the intestinal lining, a colonoscopy is often more suitable — but ultrasound provides important complementary information.