What is an Abdominal & Liver Ultrasound Scan?

An Abdominal & Liver Ultrasound Scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the liver and surrounding abdominal organs. It does not involve ionising radiation and is considered very safe.

This scan focuses on the liver, while also assessing related abdominal structures such as the gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, spleen and kidneys. It allows clinicians to evaluate liver size, texture, blood flow and the presence of fatty change, cysts, masses or inflammation.

Abdominal and liver ultrasound is widely used as a first-line investigation for liver abnormalities, abdominal pain and abnormal liver blood test results.

Why do I need an Abdominal & Liver Ultrasound Scan?

An Abdominal & Liver Ultrasound Scan is recommended when symptoms, examination findings or blood tests suggest a liver or upper abdominal condition. It helps identify the cause and severity of liver-related problems early.

You may need an Abdominal & Liver Ultrasound Scan if you experience:

• Abnormal liver function blood tests
• Upper abdominal pain or discomfort
• Suspected fatty liver disease
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Abdominal swelling or bloating
• Suspected liver cysts or masses
• Alcohol-related liver concerns
• Monitoring of known liver disease
• Follow-up of previous imaging findings
• Unexplained fatigue or weight loss

Early imaging supports timely diagnosis, monitoring and treatment.

Benefits of an Abdominal & Liver Ultrasound Scan

• Targeted liver assessment
  Detailed evaluation of liver size, structure and texture.
• Safe, radiation-free imaging
  Suitable for repeated use and long-term monitoring.
• Real-time imaging
  Allows immediate assessment of liver and biliary structures.
• Detects fatty liver and liver disease
  Identifies fatty change, inflammation and cirrhotic features.
• Identifies cysts and masses
  Detects benign and suspicious liver lesions.
• Evaluates bile ducts and gallbladder
  Useful for gallstones and bile duct obstruction.
• Fast and accessible
  Often performed and explained on the same day.
• Cost-effective first-line test
  Often avoids unnecessary CT or MRI scans.

Step-by-Step – How We Offer Abdominal & Liver Ultrasound Scans

Home-Based Ultrasound Scans (UK-wide)

• Book your ultrasound appointment online or by phone
• A qualified clinician travels to your home or chosen location
• The scan is performed in the comfort and privacy of your home
• Scan duration varies by examination type (typically 10–30 minutes)
• Findings are explained during or shortly after the scan

Important:
All ultrasound scans are provided as home-visit services only. This service is available UK-wide, allowing you to access diagnostic imaging without attending a clinic.

Your Abdominal & Liver Ultrasound Results Explained

Results are interpreted based on organ size, structure and appearance, not numerical values.

Normal Results

What this means:

• Normal liver size and texture
• No cysts, masses or fatty changes
• Normal bile ducts and gallbladder

What it suggests:
Liver-related symptoms may be functional or temporary.

Mild to Moderate Abnormal Findings

What this may show:

• Fatty liver (hepatic steatosis)
• Mild liver enlargement
• Simple liver cysts
• Gallstones or mild bile duct dilation

What it suggests:
Often managed with lifestyle changes, monitoring or medication.

Significant or Severe Abnormal Findings

What this may show:

• Significant fatty liver or fibrosis
• Liver masses or nodules
• Signs of chronic liver disease or cirrhosis
• Bile duct obstruction

What it suggests:
May require further imaging, blood tests or specialist referral.