Ultrasound Hepatobiliary System: Purpose, Procedure and Result

What is an ultrasound hepatobiliary system?

An ultrasound of the hepatobiliary system is a non-invasive imaging technique used to examine your hepatobiliary system (HBS), which involves the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. These organs work together to produce, store, and release bile, which aids in fat digestion and waste removal.

• Liver: It is an organ that detoxifies your body and regulates metabolism.

• Gallbladder: A sac that stores bile from your liver. This fluid helps digest fats.

• Bile ducts: A network of tubes that transport bile from your liver to the small intestine to facilitate digestion while also connecting to your gallbladder, where bile is stored.

This procedure uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of these organs. It helps doctors evaluate the structure, size, and function of your hepatobiliary system to detect any abnormalities, such as blockages, tumours, or inflammation.

When does the ultrasound HBS become necessary?

When your doctor suspects a problem with your liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, or pancreas, they typically perform an ultrasound of the hepatobiliary system.

The reasons why this test is usually carried out include:

• If you feel pain in your abdomen, especially in the right upper area, it could be an indication of liver or gallbladder issues.

• If your skin or eyes turn yellow (jaundice), you may have liver disease or a blocked bile duct.

• If you are experiencing nausea and vomiting, particularly when it is related to gallbladder problems or liver dysfunction.

• If you notice a change in your stool or urine colour, it could mean there's an issue with bile flow or liver function.

• If your doctor thinks you might have gallstones, liver diseases like hepatitis or cirrhosis, or tumours, an ultrasound can help confirm the diagnosis.

If you experienced any of the mentioned symptoms above, request an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our specialists can assist with further diagnoses, including an ultrasound HBS scan to determine the underlying causes and provide personalised care.

How does the ultrasound HBS work?

An HBS ultrasound uses sound waves to create clear pictures of your internal organs. Here's how it works:

• A special gel is applied to the skin on your abdomen (typically the upper abdomen) to help with the transmission of ultrasound waves.

• The ultrasound technician (sonographer) gently moves a small handheld device (transducer) over your abdomen, which emits sound waves.

• These ultrasound waves bounce off your organs and tissues, sending echoes back to the transducer. The device records these echoes and transmits them to a computer.

• The computer processes the data, generating real-time images on a monitor. The resulting images allow the doctor to evaluate the health of the hepatobiliary system, including identifying any abnormalities or issues with the liver, gallbladder, or bile ducts.

These real-time images allow the sonographer to thoroughly examine the organs that are connected to the hepatobiliary system.

This imaging test is a painless, straightforward procedure that usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes. However, you may feel some pressure as the sonographer moves the transducer around on your abdomen.

How do I prepare for an ultrasound test?

Before the procedure begins, there are some preparations you need to make, such as:

• Fasting

  • To ensure the best possible results, you may be required to fast for 6 to 8 hours prior to the ultrasound scan, particularly when the test involves the gallbladder.

  • This means you should not eat, drink (including water), or consume alcohol before the ultrasound, unless your doctor has provided specific instructions otherwise.

• Wear comfortable clothing

  • Wear clothes that allow easy access to your upper abdomen for the procedure.

• Medications

  • You can usually keep taking your regular medications, but follow your doctor's instructions if they tell you to stop them before the exam.

What results can I expect?

A radiologist, or medical professional specialising in imaging studies, will analyse your ultrasound report and may interpret the following outcomes:

• Normal results 

  • If your liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, or pancreas are in a normal state, the report will show no abnormalities.

• Abnormalities 

  • Your report may detect issues such as gallstones, fatty liver, cysts, tumours, bile duct blockages, or other abnormalities.

• Additional tests 

  • If concerns are identified, your doctor may suggest additional diagnostic tests or procedures to confirm a diagnosis and determine next steps.

However, in rare cases, an ultrasound may not provide clearer images if there is a lot of gas or a thick layer of fat in the abdomen that can obstruct the sound waves.

Always follow preparation guidelines and discuss any concerns with your doctor to ensure the most accurate results. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical to find out if an HBS ultrasound is the right imaging test for you.

What are the possible risks of HBS ultrasound? 

Ultrasound is a safe and non-invasive procedure with very few risks. However, there are a few potential considerations:

• Discomfort 

  • If you have any tenderness or inflammation, the ultrasound probe pressing on your abdomen may cause you some mild discomfort.

• Allergic reaction to gel 

  • Though uncommon, there may be a mild allergic reaction to the gel applied to the skin, resulting in redness or irritation.

FAQ

What is HBS in ultrasound?

HBS in ultrasound refers to the hepatobiliary system, which includes the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and occasionally the pancreas. An HBS ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to examine these organs to assess their structure and function. 

What is the purpose of an HBS ultrasound?

The purpose of an HBS ultrasound is to evaluate the health of the hepatobiliary system, including detecting:

• Gallbladder issues such as gallstones, cholecystitis (inflammation), and biliary sludge.

• Liver diseases, such as fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, hepatitis, liver fibrosis, and liver tumours or cysts.

• Biliary tract issues include bile duct obstructions (e.g., due to a stone or tumour) or cholestasis (reduced bile flow).

• Pancreatic problems like inflammation or masses

• It helps doctors identify any abnormalities or diseases in these organs and assists in guiding treatment decisions.

What can you see in the HBS ultrasound?

An HBS ultrasound helps to identify structural and functional issues for hepatobiliary organs. It provides images that allow doctors to see:

• The liver 

  • Its size, texture, and any signs of damage or disease (such as fatty liver or cirrhosis)

• The gallbladder 

  • It can reveal the presence of gallstones, inflammation, or other issues.

• The bile ducts 

  • Any blockages, narrowing, or dilatation can be detected.

• The pancreas 

  • It can show signs of inflammation, cysts, or tumours.

Can I drink water before an HBS ultrasound?

Usually, you can drink water before an HBS ultrasound. However, it is best to avoid drinking anything else, especially food or sugary drinks. Water generally won't interfere with the ultrasound, but you should follow your doctor's specific instructions, as fasting requirements may vary based on your condition or the specific exam. 

Do you need to fast for a hepatobiliary ultrasound?

Yes, fasting is usually required for a hepatobiliary ultrasound. You will typically need to fast for 6 to 8 hours before the procedure. This practice ensures that your gallbladder is full and visible during the exam, providing the most accurate results. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on whether fasting is required and for how long, so be sure to follow them carefully.

What are the advantages of ultrasound for the hepatobiliary system?

Ultrasound offers several advantages, including being a safe, non-invasive procedure that provides real-time standard ultrasound images. It helps detect abnormalities in the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts without exposure to radiation, making it suitable for patients of all ages.

What does an abnormal liver ultrasound indicate?

An abnormal liver ultrasound may show signs of various liver problems, such as fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, or tumours. These findings can help gastro specialists determine the underlying issues and guide further diagnostic steps or treatment options.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations based on your medical conditions, request an appointment with Thomson Medical.