What are all the parts of an abdominal exam?

Dear Ask The Doctor: What are all the parts of an abdominal exam and will I have to take off any cloths besides my shirt during the exam?

Dear Todd: During an abdominal examination your doctor will at first inspect your abdomen. For proper visualization of the abdomen, your doctor may ask you to remove your shirt and may place a sheet over the lower part of your body, only exposing the abdomen. During inspection your doctor will note made of the shape of the abdomen, skin abnormalities, abdominal masses, and the movement of the abdominal wall with respiration. After inspection of the abdomen your doctor will then proceed to auscultation. Your doctor will then put the stethoscope on various parts of the abdomen to detect altered bowel sounds, rubs, or vascular bruits. The final part of the abdominal examination will consis of palpation during which your doctor will examine and feel your abdomen for any tenderness or abdominal masses. I hope that answers your question, take care.