Dilatation, also spelled dilation, refers to the expansion or widening of a body structure beyond its normal dimensions. In ultrasound, this term is used frequently to describe findings such as bile duct dilatation from obstruction, ureteral dilatation from a kidney stone, ventricular dilatation in hydrocephalus, and cardiac chamber dilatation in heart disease. Recognizing abnormal dilatation is one of the most important skills in sonography because it often indicates an underlying pathological process that requires investigation. The degree of dilatation, whether it is mild, moderate, or severe, is typically documented in the ultrasound report and helps clinicians determine the urgency and nature of the underlying problem.
Sonography Term