When Cholelithiasis is detected on an ultrasound, what must the sonographer determine?

When Cholelithiasis is detected on an ultrasound, what must the sonographer determine?

• A. Number of stones
• B. Size of the stone(s)
• C. Contour of the stone(s)
• D. Mobility of the stone(s)

Answer: (D)

When cholelithiasis, or gallstones, is detected on an ultrasound, it is essential for the sonographer to determine the mobility of the stones. This is crucial because the behavior of the stones can provide important clinical information regarding the patient's condition. Mobility can indicate whether the stones are potentially obstructing the biliary tract and contributing to further complications such as cholecystitis or pancreatitis. Additionally, knowing if the stones are mobile helps differentiate between gallstones and other potential pathologies in the gallbladder area. The presence of mobility can also guide the physician in making decisions about the need for surgical intervention or further management strategies. While the number, size, and contour of the stones can also be important factors to consider, the mobility gives immediate insight into the current state of the patient's symptoms and the potential for complications, making it a primary focus for the sonographer.

When cholelithiasis, or gallstones, is detected on an ultrasound, it is essential for the sonographer to determine the mobility of the stones. This is crucial because the behavior of the stones can provide important clinical information regarding the patient's condition. Mobility can indicate whether the stones are potentially obstructing the biliary tract and contributing to further complications such as cholecystitis or pancreatitis.

Additionally, knowing if the stones are mobile helps differentiate between gallstones and other potential pathologies in the gallbladder area. The presence of mobility can also guide the physician in making decisions about the need for surgical intervention or further management strategies.

While the number, size, and contour of the stones can also be important factors to consider, the mobility gives immediate insight into the current state of the patient's symptoms and the potential for complications, making it a primary focus for the sonographer.