Hepatobiliary sonography provides detailed ultrasound imaging of the liver parenchyma, biliary tree, and gallbladder to evaluate a wide range of hepatic and biliary pathology. It is the first-line imaging modality for suspected gallbladder disease and liver lesion characterization.
Sonographers assess liver echogenicity and texture for fatty infiltration (steatosis) and cirrhosis, identify focal liver lesions including hemangiomas, cysts, and hepatocellular carcinoma, evaluate biliary duct dilation and cholelithiasis, and perform Doppler assessment of portal and hepatic venous flow. Assessment for portal hypertension includes splenomegaly, portosystemic collaterals, and reversal of portal flow.
Hepatobiliary imaging is covered under the ARDMS Abdomen (AB) specialty within the RDMS. Sonographers work in hospital radiology departments, hepatology clinics, gastroenterology practices, and liver transplant programs. Expertise in this area is particularly valuable in transplant centers where pre- and post-transplant hepatic vascular assessment is critical.