What does abdominal ultrasound treat?

A probe sends sound waves through the skin to create pictures of organs and nearby tissues. The scan may help assess the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, bladder, or abdominal blood vessels. It can support assessment of conditions such as Fatty Liver Disease, Gallstones, Kidney Stones, Pancreatitis, or an Inguinal Hernia, depending on the area being examined.

The result is one part of an assessment. A clinician may combine it with your symptoms, examination, blood tests, or another scan. A normal image does not explain every type of abdominal pain, and an abnormal finding does not by itself determine the treatment.

Follow the preparation instructions given with your appointment. You may be asked not to eat for a period beforehand, or to arrive with a comfortably full bladder, because food and gas can affect the view of some organs. Wear clothing that allows access to your abdomen.

During the scan, you lie on your back while gel is placed on your skin. The sonographer moves the probe across the abdomen and may ask you to change position or briefly hold your breath. Ask the imaging team when and how your result will be shared, then arrange a GP Consultation if you need help understanding the report.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen or rigid abdomen, yellowing of the skin or eyes, fainting, blood in vomit or stool, or inability to keep fluids down. Do not wait for an ultrasound appointment if symptoms are sudden or severe. Call emergency services for collapse, breathing difficulty, or confusion.

What area is being scanned, and what question is the scan meant to answer? Do I need to change food, drink, or medicines beforehand? When will I receive the report, and what follow-up test or treatment might be needed?