Intestinal Ultrasound
Our Services
Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is a non-invasive imaging technique used to visualize the intestines and surrounding structures. It is particularly useful for monitoring patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, by providing detailed images of the bowel wall and other related areas. This test helps in assessing disease activity, detecting complications, and guiding treatment decisions.
- There is no advanced preparation such as fasting or taking a bowel preparation.
- You will lie comfortably on an examination table.
- The gastroenterologist will apply a warm gel to your abdomen to ensure good contact between the ultrasound probe and your skin.
- The ultrasound probe will be gently moved over your abdomen to capture images of your intestines.
- You may be asked to change positions or hold your breath briefly to obtain the best images.
- The procedure typically lasts 10 to 20 minutes and is painless and radiation-free.
Intestinal ultrasound is performed in the office at New York Gastroenterology Associates, ensuring a convenient and comfortable experience for our patients.
New York Gastroenterology Associates is the leading private practice offering comprehensive care for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Using state-of-the-art intestinal ultrasound technology, we provide fast, accurate, and noninvasive assessments for patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease.
This Innovative approach allows our physicians to quickly visualize treatment progress and make necessary adjustments in real-time for better care outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an intestinal ultrasound?
Intestinal ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging test that uses sound waves to visualize the small and large intestines in real time. It allows gastroenterologists to assess inflammation, wall thickness, and blood flow in the bowel without radiation or invasive procedures. It’s commonly used to help diagnose and monitor inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
What happens during an intestinal ultrasound?
The procedure is comfortable and straightforward. You’ll lie on an exam table while a water-based gel is applied to your abdomen. A handheld probe (called a transducer) is gently moved over the area to capture images of your intestines. There are no needles, no sedation, and no recovery time required.
What conditions can intestinal ultrasound detect?
Intestinal ultrasound is beneficial in evaluating inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. It can detect bowel wall thickening, increased blood flow (a sign of inflammation), and other signs of active disease. It’s also helpful in monitoring treatment response over time and may help identify complications such as strictures or abscesses.
How long does the intestinal ultrasound take?
An intestinal ultrasound usually takes about 10 to 20 minutes to complete. It’s performed right in the office and doesn’t require special preparation or recovery time, making it a convenient option for ongoing care and disease monitoring.
What are the benefits of an intestinal ultrasound?
Intestinal ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive, and radiation-free way to assess bowel inflammation and monitor IBD activity. It delivers real-time results, requires no sedation or prep, and can be repeated regularly, making it ideal for diagnosis and ongoing disease management.
How do I know if I should get an intestinal ultrasound?
If you have been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, or are experiencing ongoing symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, or unexplained weight loss, an intestinal ultrasound may help evaluate your condition. Your NYGA provider will determine whether this test is appropriate based on your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment goals.
Where can I get an intestinal ultrasound in NYC?
NYGA is one of the few gastroenterology practices in the region offering intestinal ultrasound as part of our advanced IBD care. Our skilled team uses this cutting-edge technology to provide accurate, real-time assessments without sedation, radiation, or lengthy prep, all from our 5th Avenue location.