Abdominal ultrasonography is usually the first line imaging modality for examining the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, bowel and blood vessels of the paediatric abdomen. Abdominal pain is the most common indication for an abdominal ultrasound. Paediatric patient's are also referred for an ultrasound because of other symptoms such abdominal distension, vomiting, jaundice or if there is concern about blood test or urine analysis results.

Ultrasound is regularly used at The Children's Hospital, Westmead to detect pathology in the hepatobiliary and renal system. Ultrasound can demonstrate cysts, tumours, and can reveal a potentially fatal abnormality in the abdomen for which early intervention may be life saving.

This workshop will discuss the what, why and how of sonography of the paediatric upper abdomen. With emphasis on live scanning, I will demonstrate the techniques used at The Children's Hospital and highlight some of the typical pathology encountered.