Abdominal Ultrasound – Frequently Asked Questions

Helpful information about private abdominal ultrasound scans at UKSONO Healthcare, including preparation, what to expect on the day, and how your results are delivered.

• Q1 What is an abdominal ultrasound scan?

  An abdominal ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive scan that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the organs in your upper abdomen. At UKSONO Healthcare we commonly assess the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, aorta and surrounding soft tissues, depending on the reason for your referral and your symptoms.

• Q2 Which symptoms or conditions can an abdominal ultrasound help investigate?

  Abdominal ultrasound is often used to investigate:

  • Upper abdominal pain, discomfort or bloating
  • Suspected gallstones or bile duct problems
  • Abnormal liver function tests or known liver disease
  • Changes in kidney function or suspected kidney stones
  • Unexplained nausea, vomiting or weight loss (as part of wider work-up)
  • Palpable lumps or an enlarged liver or spleen
  • Monitoring known benign conditions such as liver cysts or simple kidney cysts

  Your sonographer will always focus the scan on the clinical question from your GP or specialist, and we will explain clearly what we can and cannot assess with ultrasound.

• Q3 How do I prepare for an abdominal ultrasound scan?

  For most upper abdominal scans we usually ask you to:

  • Fast for 6 hours before your appointment (no food, milk, or fizzy drinks).
  • You may drink small sips of plain water to take medications, unless advised otherwise.
  • Avoid heavy meals, chewing gum and smoking beforehand as these can affect imaging of the gallbladder and bile ducts.

  Your confirmation email from UKSONO Healthcare will clearly set out any preparation you need. If you are diabetic, pregnant, or have other specific health needs, please contact us so we can tailor fasting advice safely.

• Q4 What happens during the abdominal ultrasound appointment?

  You will be welcomed into the scan room and given time to explain your symptoms. You will usually lie on your back (and sometimes on your side) while a water-based gel is applied to your skin. The sonographer gently moves the probe over your upper abdomen to obtain detailed images.

  We may ask you to take a deep breath in and hold it briefly, or to change position, to improve the view of certain organs. Most abdominal scans take around 15–25 minutes. You can breathe normally and talk to us throughout the procedure.

• Q5 Is an abdominal ultrasound painful or harmful?

  Abdominal ultrasound is generally not painful and has an excellent safety profile. It does not use X-rays or ionising radiation. Some people feel mild pressure or brief discomfort if the probe passes over a tender area, but this usually settles quickly.

  At UKSONO Healthcare all scans are performed by experienced, UK-registered sonographers who follow national safety guidelines for diagnostic ultrasound use.

• Q6 What organs are assessed in an abdominal ultrasound at UKSONO Healthcare?

  The exact organs we assess will depend on your symptoms and the clinical question. A standard upper abdominal scan will usually include:

  • Liver and bile ducts
  • Gallbladder (for gallstones or inflammation)
  • Pancreas (where visible)
  • Spleen
  • Both kidneys
  • Main abdominal aorta

  If you have a combined abdominal and pelvic scan, we may also assess bladder, uterus and ovaries (for women), or prostate region (for men), depending on the package you have booked.

• Q7 How accurate is an abdominal ultrasound scan?

  Ultrasound is very good for detecting many common abdominal problems such as gallstones, bile duct dilatation, fatty liver changes, enlarged organs, many cysts and some types of masses. However, no test is 100% perfect and certain areas (such as parts of the pancreas or bowel) can be difficult to see clearly due to gas, body habitus or anatomy.

  If the scan is limited or if we see something that needs further investigation, we will explain this clearly and recommend appropriate next tests (for example blood tests, CT or MRI) via your GP or specialist.

• Q8 When and how will I receive my abdominal ultrasound results?

  At UKSONO Healthcare you receive a clear verbal explanation on the day of your scan and a structured written report.

  • Your detailed written ultrasound report is usually ready the same day.
  • Images and your report can be sent securely via Medifile app or by encrypted email, depending on your preference.
  • You can share the report directly with your GP, consultant or other healthcare professional.
• Q9 Can I self-refer for an abdominal ultrasound, or do I need a GP referral?

  You can usually self-refer for a private abdominal ultrasound at UKSONO Healthcare, but we strongly recommend that you are also under the care of a GP or specialist who can act on the findings and arrange any additional tests or treatment.

  If you already have a referral letter or clinic letter, please bring a copy or upload it securely when booking so we can tailor the scan to the clinical question.

• Q10 What if the abdominal ultrasound shows something serious?

  If we identify a finding that may be serious or needs urgent attention, we will explain this to you in a calm and sensitive way. With your consent we can:

  • Provide a clear written summary for your GP or specialist.
  • Highlight if an urgent NHS or private referral is advisable.
  • Offer guidance on who to contact and what to say when you seek further care.

  UKSONO Healthcare does not provide emergency services. If you feel very unwell (for example severe pain, fever, jaundice, collapse or chest pain), you should seek urgent NHS care via 999 or A&E.

• Q11 Can I eat or drink normally after my abdominal ultrasound scan?

  Yes. Once your scan is finished you can usually eat and drink as normal, unless you have been given specific advice related to another test or procedure on the same day. If you have been fasting, we suggest you bring a light snack and drink to have afterwards.

• Q12 How do I book a private abdominal ultrasound at UKSONO Healthcare?

  You can book online via our secure booking system or contact our team directly:

  • Use the “Book Ultrasound” button on our website and choose “Abdominal Ultrasound”.
  • Email our bookings team at bookings@uksono.com.
  • Call us on 01892 251532 for appointment availability and preparation advice.

  We have clinics in Tunbridge Wells, Orpington and Central London, with daytime, evening and some weekend appointments subject to availability.