Upper Abdomen Ultrasound Scan

Benefits of a Private Abdominal Ultrasound Scan

An abdominal ultrasound is a safe and effective way to investigate symptoms, check the health of your abdominal organs, or simply give you peace of mind. Many people are referred for this scan by their GP, however waiting times can often be long. With MedHealth Ultrasound, you can access a prompt appointment at a time and location that suits you.

With MedHealth you can expect:

• No waiting lists – book an appointment at your convenience.

• Fast appointments – often available within days.

• Experienced clinical specialists – your scan will be carried out by fully qualified, NHS-trained sonographers.

• Immediate explanation of findings – we talk you through your scan during your appointment.

• A clear written report – securely sent to you and/or your GP.

• Advanced ultrasound equipment – providing high-quality imaging and accurate results.

• Comfortable, welcoming clinical environments – with a focus on patient care and dignity.

While private scans are not free at the point of use in the way NHS services are, they can provide valuable reassurance and faster access to results, particularly when timing is important or symptoms are causing concern.

Why Might I Need an Abdominal Scan?

This scan is used to assess the major organs in the upper abdomen, such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, and spleen. Your healthcare professional may recommend this scan to investigate symptoms or monitor known conditions.

Common reasons for having an abdominal ultrasound include:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort

• Bloating or swelling

• Suspected gallstones or gallbladder issues

• Altered liver function or suspected liver disease

• Monitoring fatty liver disease

• Investigating possible kidney stones

• Checking for abdominal aortic aneurysm

• Detecting cysts, lesions or changes within abdominal organs

You may also choose to have this scan as part of a general health check, even if you do not currently have symptoms.

Please note: As with all ultrasound, certain factors such as bowel gas or body habitus may limit the clarity of images. If further assessment is needed, additional tests such as CT or MRI may be recommended by your treating clinician.

Upper Abdominal Ultrasound FAQs

1. Do I need to fast before an upper abdominal ultrasound?
   Often, yes. Fasting can improve views of the gallbladder and upper abdominal organs. We’ll confirm the exact instructions when you book.

2. What does an upper abdominal ultrasound look at?
   Typically the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas (where visible), spleen, kidneys, and aorta.

3. What symptoms is this scan useful for?
   Common reasons include right-sided abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, abnormal liver blood tests, or suspected gallstones.

4. How long does the scan take?
   Usually 15–25 minutes.

5. Will I get results straight away?
   We’ll talk you through what we can see during the scan, then you’ll receive a digital report on the same day.

6. Can ultrasound detect gallstones?
   Ultrasound is commonly used to assess the gallbladder and can often identify gallstones, sludge, or inflammation patterns.

7. What if bowel gas blocks the view?
   Sometimes gas limits visibility of certain structures (especially pancreas). We’ll document any limitation and advise next steps if needed.

What Happens During the Scan?

• You will be asked to lie comfortably on the examination couch.

• A small amount of ultrasound gel is placed onto your abdomen.

• A handheld probe is moved gently over the skin to create images of the internal organs.

• The scan typically takes around 10–15 minutes and is completely painless.

• Your sonographer will provide a verbal summary straight away, followed by a secure written report.

Results

We will discuss findings during the appointment and provide a clear written report. If follow up is needed, we will guide next steps.

Price

£199