A bladder stone is a hard mass of minerals that forms in the bladder, typically due to incomplete bladder emptying or concentrated urine. In abdominal ultrasound, these stones appear as highly echogenic (bright) structures within the bladder, often with posterior acoustic shadowing, indicating their solid nature and density. Identifying bladder stones is crucial for diagnosing symptoms like pain, hematuria, and urinary frequency.
Ultrasound is a primary imaging modality for detecting bladder stones due to its non-invasive nature and ability to visualize the bladder effectively. Sonographers carefully assess the size, number, and mobility of the stones, which can influence treatment decisions. Timely diagnosis via abdominal ultrasound helps guide management, ranging from conservative approaches to surgical removal, ultimately improving patient outcomes.