Gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) is a common abdominal condition where the normal emptying of stomach contents is prevented due to a blockage at or near the pylorus. This obstruction can arise from various medical causes, including peptic ulcer disease, malignancy (such as gastric cancer or pancreatic head tumors), inflammatory conditions, or rarely, external compression. Patients often present with persistent non-bilious vomiting, epigastric pain, early satiety, and weight loss.
Ultrasound plays a crucial role in the initial assessment and diagnosis of gastric outlet obstruction. Medical professionals utilize abdominal ultrasound to visualize the dilated stomach, assess the presence of retained gastric contents, and identify potential underlying causes such as masses or thickened gastric walls. This non-invasive imaging technique aids in guiding further diagnostic steps and treatment planning for this significant abdominal pathology.
