Skip to Main Content

Intestinal Ultrasound Clinic

Request appointment
(415) 353-7655

The UCSF Intestinal Ultrasound Clinic provides its imaging services to patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a category that includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, as well as to patients with symptoms that may indicate IBD.

In an ultrasound exam, sound waves are beamed into the body to generate images. Using ultrasound to examine the large and small intestine is a new application of the technology, and UCSF is one of the few hospitals in the nation offering this innovative method to monitor patients with IBD. The images allow doctors to see how a patient is responding to new drugs or other changes in treatment; assess how the bowel is healing after surgery; and scan for disease complications, such as an abscess or fistula.

Performed in the clinic by a gastroenterologist who specializes in IBD, the ultrasound exam typically takes 10 to 25 minutes. Patients are informed of the findings in real time. Ultrasound has several advantages over traditional IBD monitoring methods. An ultrasound can be scheduled more quickly than a colonoscopy or MRI, and no preparation is required – no fasting, sedation, laxatives or use of contrast dye.

However, you should understand that an intestinal ultrasound exam can't take the place of cancer screenings (such as colonoscopy or stool-based testing) because it doesn't detect small lesions. Some people with IBD are at increased risk of colon cancer.

To be seen at this clinic, patients must be referred by a UCSF provider.

Doctor referral required

Our locations (1)

    Awards & recognition

    • usnews-neurology

      Among the top hospitals in the nation

    • One of the nation's best in gastroenterology & GI surgery

    Support services

    ""
    Patient Resource

    Case Management & Social Work

    Connect with a team that can help you find resources, solve problems and advocate for you during treatment at UCSF.

    Class

    Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Class

    This eight-week class teaches mindfulness practices that can reduce stress and improve your overall health, such as meditation and body awareness.

    Patient Resource

    Patient Relations

    We welcome feedback about your experience at UCSF Health. Find out how to contact us with comments, questions or concerns.

    Patient Resource

    Spiritual Care Services

    Chaplains representing many faiths are available around the clock to provide support, comfort and counsel to patients, families and caregivers.

    Preparing for your appointment

    What to Bring

    • Photo I.D.
    • Health insurance card
    • Insurance authorization, if required
    • Doctor's referral, if required
    • Recent test results related to your condition
    • List of your medications, including dosages, plus any you're allergic to
    • List of questions you may have
    • Device or paper for taking notes

    International Services

    If you live outside the United States and are coming to UCSF for medical treatment, our patient liaisons can help coordinate all aspects of your visit.

    Learn more

    Interpreting Services

    UCSF offers interpreters in various languages, including American Sign Language (ASL), as well as services for deaf, hard-of-hearing and visually impaired patients.

    Learn more

    Hospital Stays

    Make your hospital stay as smooth and comfortable as possible by finding out how to prepare and what to expect.

    Learn more

    Your Doctor Visit

    See our top 10 tips for making your UCSF doctor’s appointment as stress-free and productive as possible.

    Learn more

    Related clinics

    Gastroenterology at Mount Zion

    1701 Divisadero St., Suite 120
    San Francisco, CA 94115

    Colitis and Crohn's Disease Center

    1701 Divisadero St., Suite 120
    San Francisco, CA 94115

    Can't find what you're looking for?

    UCSF Help Center

    (888) 689-8273

    Share