Intestinal Ultrasound Program

At the Brigham and Women’s Hospital Crohn’s and Colitis Center, we offer intestinal ultrasounds as a convenient, non-invasive way to check for inflammation in the bowels, performed in the clinic.

Scheduling: 617-732-6389

What Happens During an Intestinal Ultrasound?

Your doctor will use an ultrasound machine to check your intestines for signs of bowel inflammation.

During this procedure, your doctor will:

• Put warm gel on your abdomen
• Gently press one or more sensors (probes) against your abdomen. These probes send sound waves and capture the returning echoes, which are converted into images on the monitor
• Gently guide the probe across your abdomen to look at the whole bowel
• Record measurements to compare with past or future visits

The procedure is generally completed within 30 minutes.

What Are the Benefits of an Intestinal Ultrasound?

Also called bowel ultrasounds, intestinal ultrasounds offer several advantages over other diagnostic tests like colonoscopies, MRIs, or CT scans, including:

• No need for bowel preparation before the test
• No anesthesia required
• No radiation required
• Faster results with no need for follow-up appointments to review imaging
• Less noise and more comfort

While bowel ultrasounds provide a safer, more convenient option to check for inflammation, they are just one of many tools we use to provide you with care. They do not replace other tests.

Are There Risks with Intestinal Ultrasounds?

The risks for bowel ultrasounds are low. You may feel some discomfort while the gel is being applied or when the probe is being used, but this is usually mild.

Our doctors take extra care to make sure you feel comfortable throughout your procedure. If you feel discomfort or pain at any point, please let your doctor know right away.

How Do I Know If I Should Get an Intestinal Ultrasound?

Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing signs or symptoms of bowel inflammation like abdominal pain, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, or weight loss. Your doctor will work with you to determine if you should get additional testing.

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