What to expect from a Gallbladder Ultrasound

Our first line of defense when investigating a pain or discomfort in the right side of your belly is often an ultrasound of your gallbladder. That’s the organ that aids in the digestive process by secreting bile which helps break down food. Dr. David Leifer, a diagnostic radiologist, says diet, diabetes, and weight are all factors that help produce gallstones which can be to blame for that right-sided pain.

A gallbladder ultrasound is an extremely easy test, it involves no radiation, and it only takes 15 to 20 minutes. There is very little prep beforehand except restricting what you eat for a certain number of hours before your appointment. If your doctor says you need a gallbladder ultrasound, here’s what to expect: