A liver tumor ultrasound is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the liver. This procedure helps examine the liver’s structure and identify abnormalities. The sound waves bounce off internal tissues, producing echoes converted into real-time images on a monitor.
Purpose of a Liver Tumor Ultrasound
A liver ultrasound detects, characterizes, and monitors liver abnormalities, including potential tumors or lesions. It also evaluates the liver’s overall health and position. For individuals with risk factors like chronic liver disease, an ultrasound screens for hepatocellular carcinoma, a common liver cancer.
The procedure helps investigate symptoms such as jaundice or upper right abdominal pain, or when blood tests suggest liver issues. It can identify conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, gallstones, and vascular abnormalities. The ultrasound provides initial insights into whether a detected mass is solid or cystic, guiding further diagnostic steps.
Undergoing the Ultrasound Procedure
Preparation for a liver ultrasound typically involves fasting for several hours to improve image clarity. The patient lies on an examination table, usually on their back. A water-based gel is applied to the abdomen to facilitate sound wave transmission.
A healthcare professional, often a sonographer, moves a handheld transducer across the abdomen with gentle pressure. This device captures echoes from the liver, displaying real-time images. Patients may be asked to hold their breath or change positions briefly for optimal views. The procedure is generally painless, safe, and usually takes about 30 minutes.
Understanding Ultrasound Findings
During a liver ultrasound, radiologists examine detected lesions. They assess the size, shape, and borders of the abnormality, noting if it is well-defined or irregular. The internal echogenicity (how bright or dark the lesion appears) and its internal structure (homogeneous or heterogeneous) are also evaluated.
Doppler ultrasound assesses blood flow patterns within and around the lesion, providing further details. For example, malignant tumors might show increased vascular density and irregular vessel paths. While ultrasound can suggest if a lesion is benign or suspicious, it often requires additional imaging tests like CT or MRI for a definitive diagnosis.
Next Steps After an Ultrasound
After the ultrasound, a radiologist analyzes the images and generates a detailed report. This report is shared with the patient’s healthcare provider, who discusses the findings and recommends the next course of action.
Additional imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI with intravenous contrast, may be ordered to obtain more detailed views and better characterize the lesion. In some cases, a liver biopsy might be recommended, involving a small tissue sample for laboratory analysis to confirm the diagnosis. These steps help determine if the tumor is benign or malignant and guide treatment planning.