Abdominal Ultrasound
AbdominalUltrasound
Essential information
Abdominal ultrasound is usually the first-line method for examining the organs within the abdomen. It provides detailed images of the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, and the major blood vessels. It can also assess blood flow to these organs and help identify structural changes that may relate to your symptoms or blood test results.
Abdominal pain is the most common reason for an abdominal ultrasound. Your doctor may also refer you if you have other symptoms or if there are concerns based on examination findings or abnormal blood tests.
Amongst other conditions, an abdominal ultrasound can detect gallstones, kidney stones, cysts, and some tumours. It can also detect an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which is a widening of the main artery in the abdomen. Early detection of this condition is important because it can be life-threatening if not identified and monitored.
Ultrasound may be one of several investigations you require, and you should consult your doctor to ensure that any additional tests or onward referrals are arranged.
Why should I choose MedicalUltrasound.co.uk for my abdominal ultrasound?
- Experienced Sonographer Led Examinations
Your abdominal ultrasound is performed by a qualified and experienced Sonographer, ensuring accurate assessment of the abdominal organs and surrounding structures. - Comprehensive Abdominal Organ Assessment
The scan is tailored to assess the relevant abdominal organs, including the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, and major blood vessels, based on your symptoms or referral reason. - High Quality Real Time Imaging
We use modern hospital-grade ultrasound equipment to produce clear, real-time images that help identify structural changes, stones, cysts, enlargement, or other abnormalities. - Safe and Non-Invasive Investigation
Abdominal ultrasound is non-invasive and radiation-free, making it suitable as a first-line investigation and for follow-up imaging when required. - Clear Clinical Reporting for Your GP
A signed ultrasound report is produced following your scan and shared with your GP or referring clinician to support diagnosis, further investigation, or reassurance where appropriate.
Medical Ultrasound provides structured abdominal imaging that supports accurate diagnosis and appropriate next steps within your wider healthcare pathway.
How long is the appointment
The appointment usually takes around 20 minutes to complete.
How much does it cost
The cost of this scan is £95.
You can combine this scan with any other scan for an additional £60
Please note that this may not be possible for certain packages, such as musculoskeletal scans, vascular scans, etc, because this is a specialist area and only Sonographers with a specific interest in this field will be able to carry out the examination.
When should you get an Abdominal Ultrasound?
You may be advised to have an abdominal ultrasound if you have symptoms or test results that require further assessment. This scan provides detailed information about the major abdominal organs and is often used as a first step in investigating digestive or urinary symptoms.
An abdominal ultrasound may be appropriate if you have:
- Persistent or recurring abdominal pain
- Upper abdominal discomfort after eating
- Suspected gallstones or kidney stones
- Abnormal liver or kidney blood tests
- Bloating, nausea, or vomiting without a clear cause
- Jaundice or yellowing of the skin or eyes
- A suspected abdominal mass or enlargement
- Unexplained changes in digestion
- A request from your GP or specialist for further assessment
- Follow up after previous imaging or known abdominal conditions
An abdominal ultrasound is commonly chosen as a first-line investigation because it is safe, quick, and provides real-time images without radiation. It helps your clinician understand the cause of your symptoms and guides appropriate next steps in your care.
How should you prepare for the scan?
Your preparation will depend on which abdominal organs your GP has asked us to assess. In some cases, you will be asked to avoid eating for 6 hours before your appointment to allow clearer views of the upper abdominal organs. For other scans, you may be asked to drink around 2 pints of water and attend with a full bladder.
You will be given specific instructions when you book your appointment so that the correct preparation is followed.
What will you experience during the examination?
The examination will be carried out by a qualified Sonographer. The procedure is non-invasive and painless. Warm gel will be applied to your abdomen, and the Sonographer will move a small transducer across the upper and lower abdomen to obtain the necessary images of the organs and blood vessels.
You may be asked to take deep breaths, hold your breath, or change position during the scan, as this helps improve visibility of the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, and surrounding structures.
You are welcome to ask questions during your examination.
When do you get the results
We will send a signed report of our findings to your doctor. You should then arrange an appointment with your GP, who will explain the results to you.
Your doctor is best placed to discuss your results because they will have access to your full medical history, blood tests, and any other investigations that may be relevant.
Abdominal Ultrasound FAQS
At MedicalUltrasound.co.uk, diagnostic accuracy, clinical clarity, and patient reassurance are central to every examination. This FAQ guide covers the most common questions about abdominal ultrasound, including when it is recommended, which organs are assessed, how preparation differs depending on the scan, and what happens after your appointment.
The information explains how abdominal ultrasound is used as a first-line investigation to assess organs such as the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, and major blood vessels. It outlines its role in investigating symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, abnormal blood tests, nausea, jaundice, and urinary concerns, as well as monitoring known abdominal conditions.
Each question is presented in two parts.
A Short answer for quick reference
An In-depth answer to provide a clinical explanation and context
Whether you have been referred by your GP or are arranging a private scan, this guide is designed to help you understand the purpose of an abdominal ultrasound, what to expect during the examination, and how the results support diagnosis, reassurance, or further investigation, delivered by experienced diagnostic Sonographers.
What is an abdominal ultrasound?
An abdominal ultrasound is a scan used to examine the organs and blood vessels within the abdomen.
An abdominal ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of the abdominal organs. It is commonly used to assess the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, and major blood vessels, including the abdominal aorta. The scan helps identify structural changes such as gallstones, kidney stones, cysts, organ enlargement, fluid collections, or masses that may explain symptoms or abnormal blood test results.
Abdominal ultrasound is often used as a first-line investigation for abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, jaundice, or unexplained changes in liver or kidney function. It does not use radiation and is considered safe for repeated use. The examination provides valuable diagnostic information that helps guide further tests, monitoring, or referral where appropriate, and is interpreted by your GP alongside your clinical history and other investigations.
Can an abdominal ultrasound detect causes of indigestion or bloating?
Yes. It can identify organ-related causes of ongoing indigestion or bloating.
An abdominal ultrasound can assess the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and bile ducts, which are common sources of digestive symptoms. Gallstones, fatty liver changes, bile duct dilation, or pancreatic abnormalities may contribute to indigestion, bloating, or discomfort after meals. While ultrasound does not assess stomach lining or bowel function directly, it helps rule out structural causes and guide whether further tests are required.
Will the scan show if my liver or spleen is enlarged?
Yes. Ultrasound accurately measures liver and spleen size.
Abdominal ultrasound is very effective at assessing organ size and shape. Enlargement of the liver or spleen may be related to infection, inflammation, liver disease, blood disorders, or portal hypertension. The scan provides objective measurements, which your GP will interpret alongside blood tests and clinical findings.
Can an abdominal ultrasound detect inflammation of the pancreas?
Visibility depends on anatomy and bowel gas.
Ultrasound can identify pancreatic enlargement, surrounding fluid, or structural changes associated with inflammation. However, the pancreas may be partially obscured by bowel gas, particularly in acute pancreatitis. If the pancreas is not adequately visualised or inflammation is strongly suspected, your GP may request a CT or an MRI for further assessment.
Does an abdominal ultrasound show bowel problems?
It can identify indirect signs, but it is not a primary bowel test.
Ultrasound does not assess the bowel lining in detail, but it may detect bowel wall thickening, fluid collections, masses, or inflammation that warrant further investigation. Conditions such as bowel obstruction, abscesses, or inflammatory changes may be suspected on ultrasound and followed up with additional imaging.
Can the scan explain pain after eating fatty foods?
Yes. Gallbladder conditions are a common cause.
Pain after eating fatty foods is often linked to gallstones or gallbladder dysfunction. Abdominal ultrasound is the best first-line test for detecting gallstones, gallbladder wall thickening, or bile duct dilation. Identifying these changes helps explain symptoms and guides appropriate referral or treatment.
Will medication affect the results of an abdominal ultrasound?
Usually not. Most medications do not interfere with imaging.
Pain after eating fatty foods is often linked to gallstones or gallbladder dysfunction. Abdominal ultrasound is the best first-line test for detecting gallstones, gallbladder wall thickening, or bile duct dilation. Identifying these changes helps explain symptoms and guides appropriate referral or treatment.
Can an abdominal ultrasound detect aortic enlargement?
Yes. It can identify abdominal aortic aneurysms.
During an abdominal ultrasound, the Sonographer can assess the abdominal aorta and measure its diameter. This allows detection of abdominal aortic aneurysm and supports early monitoring or referral where enlargement is found. Ultrasound is widely used for screening and surveillance of aortic size.
Can the scan help if I have unexplained nausea?
Maybe. It can identify structural abdominal causes.
Persistent or unexplained nausea may be linked to gallbladder disease, liver conditions, pancreatic abnormalities, or bile duct issues. Abdominal ultrasound helps assess these organs and identify changes that may explain symptoms, even when blood tests are borderline or normal.
Do I need a full bladder for all abdominal ultrasound scans?
No. Only certain scans require a full bladder.
A full bladder is usually required for pelvic or lower abdominal assessments to improve visualisation. Upper abdominal scans of the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, and pancreas typically require fasting instead. You will be given specific preparation instructions based on the organs being assessed.
Can an abdominal ultrasound detect kidney problems without urinary symptoms?
Yes. Many kidney findings are symptom-free.
Kidney stones, cysts, scarring, or structural changes may be present without urinary symptoms. Abdominal ultrasound can detect these findings incidentally and provide important information even when urine tests are normal or symptoms are absent.
What organs are checked in an abdominal ultrasound?
It assesses the major abdominal organs and blood vessels.
An abdominal ultrasound commonly examines the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, and major blood vessels. Depending on the referral, the scan may focus on specific organs or provide a comprehensive overview to investigate symptoms or abnormal blood results.
Is an abdominal ultrasound the first test for abdominal pain?
Yes. It is often the first line of investigation.
Abdominal ultrasound is commonly requested as the initial imaging test for abdominal pain because it is safe, quick, and provides real time information. It helps identify gallstones, kidney stones, organ enlargement, cysts, or masses and guides whether further imaging is needed.
How accurate is an abdominal ultrasound?
It is highly accurate for many abdominal conditions.
Abdominal ultrasound is very reliable for detecting gallstones, kidney stones, cysts, organ enlargement, and fluid collections. Accuracy depends on the condition being assessed, the patient’s body habitus, and preparation such as fasting. Some conditions may require further imaging if ultrasound findings are inconclusive.
Can an abdominal ultrasound detect cancer?
It can identify masses but cannot diagnose cancer alone.
Ultrasound may detect abnormal masses, lesions, or organ changes that raise concern. However, it cannot confirm cancer. If suspicious findings are seen, your GP may arrange further imaging, biopsy, or specialist referral for definitive diagnosis.
Is abdominal ultrasound safe?
Yes. It does not use radiation.
Abdominal ultrasound uses sound waves rather than radiation, making it safe for repeated use and suitable for all age groups, including during pregnancy when appropriate. This safety profile makes it ideal for initial investigation and follow up.
How long does an abdominal ultrasound take?
Most scans take around 15 to 20 minutes.
The duration depends on the organs being assessed and image clarity. Additional time may be needed if bowel gas limits visibility or if a detailed assessment is required. The scan itself is painless and non-invasive.
Can an abdominal ultrasound detect fluid in the abdomen?
Yes. It is very effective at detecting free fluid.
Ultrasound can identify fluid accumulation within the abdomen, which may be related to liver disease, infection, inflammation, or internal bleeding. Detecting fluid helps guide further investigation and management.
Can eating before the scan affect results?
Yes. Eating can reduce image quality for some organs.
Food intake increases bowel gas and gallbladder contraction, which can limit visibility of the upper abdominal organs. This is why fasting is often required for an upper abdominal ultrasound. Following preparation instructions improves diagnostic accuracy.
Will I get my abdominal ultrasound results immediately?
No. Results are sent to your GP for discussion.
A signed ultrasound report is prepared and sent to your GP or referring clinician. Your doctor will explain the findings in context with your symptoms, blood tests, and examination, and advise on next steps.
What happens if my abdominal ultrasound is normal?
A normal scan is reassuring but may not end investigations.
A normal abdominal ultrasound helps rule out many structural causes of symptoms. If symptoms persist, your GP may consider blood tests, endoscopy, CT, MRI, or referral to a specialist. Ultrasound findings are always interpreted as part of your overall clinical picture.
To book, call: 0141 221 2496 or email[email protected]
To book, call: 0141 221 2496 or email[email protected]
Head Office
MedicalUltrasound.co.uk
Ingram House
227 Ingram Street
Glasgow G1 1DA
Contact
T: 0141 221 2496
Booking line manned
9am to 5pm 7 days a week