What imaging study is often used to evaluate the biliary tract?

Ultrasound is commonly used to evaluate the biliary tract because it is a non-invasive and highly effective imaging modality that can visualize the gallbladder, bile ducts, and surrounding structures in real-time. It facilitates the assessment of conditions like gallstones, biliary obstruction, and inflammation of the bile ducts (cholangitis). Ultrasound is particularly advantageous as it does not involve ionizing radiation and can be performed quickly, making it a first-line imaging study in many cases of suspected biliary disease.

While other imaging techniques, such as CT scans and MRIs, can also be used to assess the biliary system, they are typically reserved for more complex cases or when additional anatomical detail is necessary. X-ray is generally not useful for evaluating the biliary tract directly. Thus, ultrasound stands out as the preferred initial method for biliary evaluation.