Why might I need an abdominal ultrasound?
An abdominal scan may be considered when symptoms, blood-test results or an existing condition require assessment of abdominal organs.
- Ongoing or unexplained abdominal pain
- Abdominal swelling or bloating
- Persistent digestive symptoms or indigestion
- Changes in bowel habits that need clinical investigation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abnormal liver or kidney blood-test results
- Monitoring a known condition
- A finding noted during a physical examination
What can an abdominal ultrasound show?
Depending on the organs examined, ultrasound may identify findings associated with gallstones, some kidney stones, cysts, fluid build-up, fatty-liver change, organ enlargement, inflammation or infection.
A finding on ultrasound is interpreted alongside your symptoms, medical history and any laboratory results. Further imaging or specialist review may be required.
How does an abdominal ultrasound work?
Water-based gel is applied to the abdomen and a handheld transducer is moved over the skin. Sound-wave echoes are converted into images on a screen as the examination takes place.
You may be asked to change position or hold your breath briefly so that particular organs can be seen more clearly. Some pressure may be needed over the area being examined.
What are the limitations of abdominal ultrasound?
Ultrasound waves are disrupted by air and gas, so the bowel and organs obscured by bowel gas can be difficult to assess. Body depth and the position of organs can also affect image quality.
A normal scan does not rule out every cause of abdominal pain or digestive symptoms. CT, MRI, endoscopy, blood tests or specialist assessment may sometimes be needed.
How to prepare for an abdominal or organ scan
Preparation depends on the organs being examined. You may be asked to avoid food for several hours or to arrive with a comfortably full bladder to improve image quality.
Follow the instructions supplied with your appointment. Contact the clinic in advance if you have diabetes, take medication that affects fasting or cannot follow the preparation safely.
What to expect on the day
The clinician will explain the procedure and answer questions before the scan. You will usually lie on an examination couch with the abdomen exposed while the images and measurements are obtained.
Appointments typically take 20 to 30 minutes. Most people can return to normal activities immediately afterwards unless advised otherwise.
Getting your results
The images are reviewed and a report is prepared. Results are provided digitally with an explanation of any recommended next step.
The clinic will confirm who reports the examination, the delivery method and the reporting timetable when your booking is accepted.
