What is an Abdominal Ultrasound Scan?

An Abdominal Ultrasound Scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the organs inside the abdomen. Unlike CT scans or X-rays, ultrasound does not use ionising radiation and is considered very safe.

This scan allows clinicians to assess key abdominal organs including the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, spleen, kidneys and bladder. It can also detect fluid collections, inflammation, cysts, stones and organ enlargement.

Abdominal ultrasound is often the first-line investigation for abdominal symptoms, providing rapid and reliable information to guide further care.

Why do I need an Abdominal Ultrasound Scan?

An Abdominal Ultrasound Scan is recommended when symptoms, physical findings or blood test results suggest a possible problem affecting the abdominal organs. It helps identify the cause of symptoms quickly and accurately.

You may need an Abdominal Ultrasound Scan if you experience:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Swelling or bloating
• Abnormal liver or kidney blood test results
• Suspected gallstones or kidney stones
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Nausea or digestive symptoms
• Unexplained weight loss
• Suspected fluid in the abdomen
• Monitoring of known abdominal conditions
• Follow-up of previous imaging findings

Early imaging supports timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Benefits of an Abdominal Ultrasound Scan

• Safe, radiation-free imaging
  Uses sound waves rather than X-rays or radiation.
• Real-time assessment
  Allows immediate visualisation of organ movement and blood flow.
• Fast and accessible
  Often performed and explained on the same day.
• Effective first-line investigation
  Ideal for many abdominal symptoms and conditions.
• Detects stones, cysts and fluid
  Excellent for gallstones, kidney stones and fluid collections.
• Guides further testing or treatment
  Helps determine if CT, MRI or specialist referral is needed.
• Non-invasive and painless
  No injections or needles required in most cases.
• Cost-effective diagnostic option
  More affordable than advanced imaging for many conditions.

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

Clinic-Based Abdominal Ultrasound Scan (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• Attend your scheduled appointment
• The scan typically takes 15–30 minutes
• Performed by an experienced clinician
• Findings are explained during or shortly after the scan

Important:
Abdominal ultrasound scans are performed in clinic only. Home visits are not available. Services are available across the UK.

Your Abdominal Ultrasound Results Explained

Abdominal ultrasound results are interpreted based on organ size, structure and appearance, rather than numerical values.

Normal Results

What this means:

• Normal size and appearance of abdominal organs
• No stones, cysts, masses or abnormal fluid

What it suggests:
Symptoms may be functional, dietary or unrelated to structural disease.

Mild to Moderate Abnormal Findings

What this may show:

• Fatty liver changes
• Small cysts
• Mild organ enlargement
• Gallstones or kidney stones

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

Significant or Severe Abnormal Findings

What this may show:

• Significant organ enlargement
• Large cysts or masses
• Bile duct obstruction
• Free fluid in the abdomen

What it suggests:
May require further imaging, urgent referral or specialist treatment.