Which specialist performs abdominal ultrasound?

The sonographer positions you, applies gel to the skin and moves a handheld probe across the abdomen to create images using sound waves. They may ask you to change position or briefly hold your breath so different organs can be viewed. The radiology team checks the images and prepares a report for the clinician who requested the scan. The person who explains the result may therefore be your GP, a specialist or the radiologist, depending on the service and your clinical situation. The scan is designed to assess structures such as the liver, gallbladder, kidneys and abdominal blood vessels.

Follow the imaging centre's instructions because preparation depends on the reason for the scan. You may be asked to avoid food for a period beforehand or to arrive with a comfortably full bladder. Wear clothing that allows access to the abdomen and bring details of medicines, previous imaging and the symptoms being investigated. Ask who will receive the report and when results will be discussed. The Abdominal Ultrasound page explains the examination in more detail.

An ultrasound appointment should not delay urgent help for severe abdominal pain, fainting, repeated vomiting, yellowing of the skin, heavy bleeding or a rigid, swollen abdomen. Contact an urgent service if symptoms suddenly worsen or you cannot keep fluids down. Tell the requesting clinician about pregnancy, recent surgery or significant tenderness before the scan.

Ask why the scan was requested, which organs need assessment, how to prepare, who will interpret it and how results will reach you. If you are anxious about a finding, ask what the next step would be if the images are unclear.