What Does Sag Mean in an Ultrasound Test for Gall Stones?
Ultrasound is the preferred modality to image the gallbladder. A gallbladder sonogram can detect gallstones, gallbladder disease and cancer. The terms transverse and sagittal (sag) refer to the views of the gallbladder that are routinely examined.
Other People Are Reading
-
Definition
-
An ultrasound, also called a sonogram, uses sound waves to penetrate the soft tissue and internal organs. The sound waves bounce back to the transducer, providing a 2 dimensional image.
Protocol
-
The sonographer examines the gallbladder and common bile duct looking for stones, polyps or other common diseases. The gallbladder is viewed in two separate planes, transverse and sagittal. Transverse view is a cross section of the organ, and "sag" view is the organ in its longest plane. In this plane the fundus, body and neck of the gallbladder are seen.
-
Indication
-
A doctor may refer a patient for a gallbladder sonogram if they are experiencing right upper quadrant pain, jaundice or indigestion.
Risks
-
Ultrasound carries no known risks. No radiation is used as in a traditional x-ray.
Preparation
-
A gallbladder sonogram requires the patient to have to nothing to eat 8 hours prior to the exam. If you eat before the exam, the gallbladder contracts making it difficult to visualize.
-
