Abdominal Ultrasound

An abdominal ultrasound uses sound waves to create pictures of organs and structures inside the abdomen.

A clinician may use it to look at the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, bladder, blood vessels or a lump in the abdominal wall. It produces moving images without an incision.

You lie on an examination couch while a sonographer places gel on the skin and moves a handheld probe across the area being examined. You may be asked to change position or briefly hold your breath so the images are clearer.

Preparation depends on the question being investigated. You may be asked to avoid food beforehand, or to arrive with a comfortably full bladder. Follow the instructions from the clinic because food and gas can affect some views.

Ultrasound does not use ionising radiation. The gel may feel cool and the probe can press on a tender area, but the scan itself is non-invasive.

Its usefulness depends on the organ, the question being asked and whether bowel gas or body shape limits the view. A clear scan can identify many structural changes, while an unclear or unexpected finding may need another test for clarification.

The clinician who requested the scan considers the report alongside your symptoms, examination and medical history. An abnormal result may lead to blood tests, repeat imaging, a specialist referral or a discussion about treatment; it does not by itself establish every diagnosis.

Bring the request form and tell the team if you have symptoms that make lying flat difficult. Wear clothing that allows easy access to the abdomen, and avoid applying thick creams there on the day.

A GP may request an ultrasound for persistent abdominal discomfort, unexplained swelling, altered liver tests, suspected gallbladder or kidney problems, or follow-up of a known finding. It can help assess conditions such as Gallstones, Fatty Liver Disease and Kidney Stones.

The appointment usually follows a simple sequence. The sonographer confirms the area to scan, positions you, applies gel, captures images from several angles and wipes the gel away when finished. A radiologist or other qualified clinician reviews the images and sends a report to the requesting clinician.

There is no recovery period after a standard abdominal ultrasound. You can normally return to usual activities and eat or drink once any fasting instruction has ended. Ask the requesting clinic when and how your result will be discussed.

The main limitation is that the scan may not give a complete view of every structure. Contact the clinician who arranged the test if symptoms are worsening while you await results. Seek urgent medical care for severe abdominal pain, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Depending on the concern, a clinician may choose blood or urine tests, CT, MRI, endoscopy or a period of monitoring. Each option answers a different question, so the choice is based on the body area, symptoms and need for detail.

Book through the clinician who knows why the test is needed, or arrange a GP Consultation if you need an assessment first. Tell the service about previous imaging and any current severe symptoms so the appointment can be arranged appropriately.