Ultrasound of the bile ducts
Ultrasound of the bile ducts (biliary system sonography) is a gentle and detailed examination. It focuses on the bile ducts that drain bile from the liver to the duodenum. At Hello Beauty Clinic, we perform this examination as a separate diagnostic test. It is painless, radiation-free and takes 15 to 30 minutes. The results will be discussed with you by the doctor immediately. Ideal for quickly clarifying problems associated with bile drainage.
The importance of the bile ducts for digestion and health
The bile ducts form a complex system of channels inside the liver and the main bile duct, which passes around the pancreas into the small intestine. Their main task is to transport bile - a fluid produced by the liver that emulsifies fats and helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
Bile outflow disorders can lead to serious complications. These include stone blockage, inflammation, dilation of the ducts due to obstruction, or, more rarely, cancer. They often only manifest in the acute phase - jaundice, itchy skin, dark urine, fever, or pain in the right hypochondrium.
Early sonography of the bile ducts allows these changes to be detected before damage to the pancreas or liver occurs.
What does an ultrasound of the bile ducts reveal
Modern ultrasound devices allow precise imaging of the bile ducts. The doctor assesses their width, wall, contents and surrounding structures.
Possible findings include:
- Stones in the common bile duct
- Widening of the ducts (dilatation) above the obstruction
- Inflammatory changes or thickening of the wall
- Strictures or compression from the surrounding area
- Rarely polyps or tumor foci
Are you interested in a bile duct examination?
When is a bile duct examination appropriate
Ultrasound is recommended for symptoms indicating a bile duct obstruction – jaundice, itchy skin without a rash, urine discoloration, unexplained fever, or pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen.
The examination is crucial after a history of biliary colic, when a stone is suspected to have traveled to the common bile duct, after gallbladder surgery, or when liver function tests are elevated. Risk groups include patients with chronic liver disease, after repeated inflammation, or on long-term medication that burdens the liver.
Gallbladder ultrasound
In addition to biliary tract sonography, our clinic also offers gallbladder ultrasound as a separate or follow-up examination. The gallbladder and bile ducts are closely related in the storage and transport of bile, which is why many clients choose to have both examinations immediately after each other at the same time.
This examination precisely displays the size, shape, wall thickness, and contents of the gallbladder. It reliably detects gallstones, inflammation, polyps, accumulated sludge or thickening of the wall. It often quickly explains the cause of pain in the right lower abdomen, bloating after fatty meals or repeated nausea.
If you experience typical gallbladder problems or have risk factors such as overweight, rapid weight loss or family burden, you can undergo both examinations directly after each other. This will give you a complete and comprehensive view of the entire upper biliary system without the need for another visit.
Kidney ultrasound
In some cases, we recommend supplementing the diagnosis with a kidney ultrasound, especially in cases of recurrent pain in the lumbar region or unexplained increases in blood pressure.
This examination, focused on the kidneys and adrenal glands, assesses their size, structure, hollow system and blood supply. It detects stones, cysts, inflammation, hydronephrosis or changes in chronic kidney disease.
Symptoms include pain in the lumbar region, changes in urine, swelling, high blood pressure, or abnormalities in blood tests (creatinine, urea).
Kidney exams can be done at the same appointment or separately. Preparation is minimal - just come hydrated. The doctor will move the probe into the lumbar region and hips for a complete view of both kidneys.
Why choose our sonography
The examination is completely safe for patients of all ages – from children to pregnant women to the elderly. We do not use any ionizing radiation, so it can be repeated as often as necessary without any concerns.
Our clients most often highlight the short waiting times for an appointment, immediate evaluation of the results on site, and the professional, yet very humane approach of the entire team. Our specialists have many years of experience in the field of sonography. They perform each examination with maximum care and emphasis on the smallest details so that nothing important is missed.
Ultrasound of the biliary tract is therefore the first and at the same time the most gentle line of diagnosis in any suspicion of a bile outflow disorder. It is often sufficient to quickly rule out more serious problems or to accurately direct further care. Sonography of the biliary tract is the key to early detection of inflammation or other changes that could lead to unpleasant complications. We combine cutting-edge ultrasound technology with a truly individual approach to each client.
Smooth bile flow means not only better digestion of fats and absorption of important vitamins, but also fewer digestive problems, more energy and overall greater vitality in everyday life.
Take a step towards your health - book an ultrasound of the biliary tract.