Biliary dilation, a key finding in abdominal ultrasound, refers to the abnormal widening of the bile ducts. This condition often indicates an obstruction to bile flow, which can be caused by gallstones, tumors, strictures, or inflammation. Ultrasound is a primary imaging modality for detecting biliary dilation, allowing clinicians to visualize the intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts and identify the level and cause of the obstruction.
Accurate identification of biliary dilation is crucial for timely diagnosis and management of underlying hepatobiliary diseases. Medical professionals rely on precise ultrasound imaging to assess the degree of dilation, locate the cause, and guide further diagnostic or therapeutic interventions. Understanding biliary dilation in abdominal ultrasound is essential for comprehensive patient care.