200+ Free RDMS Abdomen Practice Questions
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Key Facts: RDMS Abdomen Exam
170
Exam Questions
ARDMS
555
Passing Score (Scaled)
ARDMS
3 hrs
Time Limit
ARDMS
$350
Exam Fee (includes SPI)
ARDMS 2026
25%
Largest Section
Liver/Biliary System
~70%
First-Time Pass Rate
Industry estimate
The ARDMS Abdomen specialty exam has approximately 170 multiple-choice questions over 3 hours with a passing score of 555 (scaled). The exam requires SPI certification as a prerequisite. Content emphasizes liver pathology (hepatic masses, cirrhosis, fatty liver), gallbladder/biliary disease (cholelithiasis, cholecystitis, CBD dilation), renal pathology (hydronephrosis, renal masses, stones), pancreatic pathology, splenic conditions, and abdominal vascular anatomy including Doppler assessment. First-time pass rates are approximately 70%.
About the RDMS Abdomen Exam
The RDMS Abdomen specialty exam assesses knowledge of abdominal sonographic anatomy, physiology, and pathology. The exam covers liver, gallbladder, biliary system, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, abdominal vasculature, and peritoneal cavity using diagnostic ultrasound techniques. Candidates must first pass the SPI (Sonography Principles & Instrumentation) exam.
Questions
170 scored questions
Time Limit
3 hours
Passing Score
Scaled score 555 (~70%)
Exam Fee
$350 (includes SPI prerequisite fee) (ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography))
RDMS Abdomen Exam Content Outline
Liver and Biliary System
Hepatic anatomy (segments, lobes, ligaments), liver pathology (hepatocellular carcinoma, metastases, hemangioma, cirrhosis, fatty liver), gallbladder pathology (cholelithiasis, cholecystitis, polyps, carcinoma), biliary anatomy and pathology (CBD stones, dilation, Klatskin tumor)
Kidneys and Urinary System
Renal anatomy and variants, hydronephrosis grading, renal masses (RCC, angiomyolipoma, cysts - Bosniak classification), renal stones, renal Doppler (RAS evaluation), transplant kidney assessment, bladder pathology
Pancreas and Spleen
Pancreatic anatomy, acute and chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic masses (adenocarcinoma, IPMN, neuroendocrine tumors), splenic anatomy, splenomegaly, splenic lesions, accessory spleen
Abdominal Vasculature
Aorta and IVC anatomy, abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), mesenteric vessels (SMA, celiac axis), portal venous system, hepatic veins, Doppler waveform analysis, Budd-Chiari syndrome, portal hypertension
Peritoneal Cavity and Other Structures
Ascites, peritoneal masses, lymphadenopathy, retroperitoneal structures, adrenal glands, abdominal wall pathology, fluid collections
Clinical Care and Patient Interaction
Patient preparation, scanning techniques, ergonomics, infection control, clinical indications, correlative imaging, report documentation
How to Pass the RDMS Abdomen Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: Scaled score 555 (~70%)
- Exam length: 170 questions
- Time limit: 3 hours
- Exam fee: $350 (includes SPI prerequisite fee)
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
RDMS Abdomen Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the RDMS Abdomen specialty exam?
The RDMS (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer) Abdomen specialty exam is administered by ARDMS to certify sonographers in abdominal imaging. The exam tests knowledge of abdominal anatomy, scanning techniques, pathology recognition, and Doppler assessment of abdominal organs and vasculature. Passing earns the RDMS credential with Abdomen (AB) specialty designation.
What are the prerequisites for the RDMS Abdomen exam?
Candidates must first pass the SPI (Sonography Principles & Instrumentation) exam before taking the Abdomen specialty exam. Additionally, you must meet one of ARDMS eligibility pathways: (1) Completion of a diagnostic medical sonography program, (2) Bachelor's degree with specific clinical experience, or (3) Other ARDMS-approved pathways including 12 months of clinical ultrasound experience.
How many questions are on the RDMS Abdomen exam?
The ARDMS Abdomen specialty exam contains approximately 170 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have 3 hours to complete the exam. Questions cover liver/biliary system (25%), kidneys/urinary (20%), abdominal vasculature (20%), pancreas/spleen (15%), peritoneal cavity (12%), and clinical care (8%).
What is the passing score for RDMS Abdomen?
The passing score is 555 on ARDMS's scaled scoring system (typically 300-700 scale). This equates to approximately 70% of questions answered correctly. ARDMS uses scaled scoring to ensure fairness across different exam forms. You receive preliminary results at the test center, with official scores within 30 days.
What organ systems are most tested on the Abdomen exam?
The liver/biliary system (25%) and kidneys/urinary system (20%) are the most heavily weighted, followed by abdominal vasculature (20%). Together these three areas account for 65% of the exam. Know hepatic segmental anatomy, gallstone sonographic findings, hydronephrosis grading, renal mass characteristics (Bosniak classification), and Doppler waveform interpretation for abdominal vessels.
How do I maintain my RDMS Abdomen credential?
RDMS credentials require recertification every 3 years. You must complete 36 continuing medical education (CME) credits during each 3-year cycle. ARDMS accepts CME from various providers including SDMS, AIUM, and other approved organizations. You can also recertify by retaking the specialty exam.