Abdominal Ultrasound Scan

What conditions can be detected with an abdominal ultrasound scan?

Various diagnostic techniques are used for diagnosing abdominal problems. Amongst these are abdominal ultrasound, endoscopy, x-ray and CT scanning.

Abdominal ultrasound is usually the first line method for examining the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, spleen and blood vessels of the abdomen. It can also show the blood flow to these organs and the blood flow of the main blood vessels in the abdomen.

Abdominal pain is the most common indication for an abdominal ultrasound. However, your doctor may also refer you because you are suffering from other symptoms or he maybe concerned about his examination findings or blood tests.

Amongst other conditions, abdominal ultrasound can detect stones in the gall bladder and kidneys, cysts and some tumours. It can also detect an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which is a widening of the aortic artery and is a potentially fatal condition for which early medical intervention can be life saving.

Ultrasound maybe one of many investigations you require and you should consult your doctor to ensure that any other necessary investigations are arranged.

How long is the appointment?

20 minutes is required to complete the examination.

How much does it cost?

The cost of this scan is £95.

You can combine any other package with this package for an additional charge of £40 per package.

Please note that this may not be possible for certain packages eg musculo-skeletal as this is a very specialised area and only Sonographers with a specialist interest in this area will be able to perform this examination.

What preparation is required for the scan?

This will vary depending on what area your GP has requested us to examine. For some scans we will ask you to refrain from eating or drinking for a few hours and other scans we will ask you to drink 2 pints of fluid prior to your appointment and attend with a full bladder. Sometimes no preparation is required.

What will happen during the examination?

The examination will be carried out by a qualified Sonographer. The procedure is non-invasive and painless. The Sonographer will move a transducer lubricated with warm gel over your abdomen to obtain necessary images. You are welcome to ask questions during your examination.

When do I 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 our findings to you.

We feel that your doctor is best placed to explain the findings to you because he will have details of blood tests and other investigations that may have been carried out.