What should you know about complete abdominal ultrasound includes?

A complete abdominal ultrasound examines several upper and lower abdominal organs using sound waves, without radiation. The sonographer may assess the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, abdominal aorta and bladder. The exact views depend on your symptoms, the referral and how clearly each structure can be seen.

The images can help identify changes such as gallstones, swelling, fluid, cysts, blockage or differences in organ size and appearance. It may support assessment of conditions such as Gallstones, Kidney Stones or Pancreatitis, but an ultrasound does not explain every type of abdominal pain. Gas, body shape and an unfilled bladder can make some areas harder to view. A report is interpreted alongside your history, examination and any blood tests.

Follow the imaging centre's instructions. You may be asked not to eat for several hours so the gallbladder is easier to assess, and you may need to drink water before the appointment to fill your bladder. Wear clothing that allows access to your abdomen. During the scan, you lie down while gel is placed on your skin and a handheld probe is moved across the area. Tell the team if pressing on a tender area is uncomfortable.

An ultrasound appointment should not delay urgent help. Seek prompt medical care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, a rigid or very swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, fainting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, blood in vomit or stool, or inability to pass urine. A GP Consultation can help decide whether imaging is appropriate and how quickly you need assessment.

Ask which organs are being assessed, whether you need to fast or drink water, when to expect the report, and what other tests may be needed if the scan is normal. You can also ask whether a groin or abdominal bulge needs separate assessment for an Inguinal Hernia.