What should you know about total abdominal ultrasound?

The scan may assess the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, bladder and major abdominal vessels. It can help investigate pain, swelling, jaundice, abnormal blood tests or a suspected stone. It may also help assess a lump, although the exact area examined depends on the referral.

A sonographer moves gel and a handheld probe over the skin. The images can suggest changes such as stones, swelling, fluid or altered organ size, but an ultrasound does not explain every symptom and may need to be combined with examination or other tests.

Follow the imaging centre's instructions. You may be asked not to eat for several hours and to drink water so the bladder is suitably full. Wear clothing that allows access to the abdomen, and mention pregnancy, recent surgery, medication use or difficulty lying flat before the scan.

The scan commonly takes around half an hour, though timing varies. You can usually return to ordinary activities afterwards unless your clinician gives different advice.

Seek urgent care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, a rigid or swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, fainting, confusion, blood in vomit or stool, or yellow skin with fever. Do not wait for a planned scan if you feel acutely unwell.

Ask which organs are being assessed, whether you need to fast or drink water, when results will be reviewed, and what further test may be needed if the scan does not explain your symptoms.