The ultrasound examination of the spleen.

The spleen is a parenchymatous organ located in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen, in the splenic lodge. The normal spleen is 10-12 cm long and 3-5 cm thick. The ultrasound examination of the spleen is better performed in a fasting patient, in supine or right lateral position, using an intercostal approach, with a 3.5 to 5 MHz transducer. Due to the high position of this organ, covered by the ribs, inviting the patient to take a deep breath could be useful.