An abdominal ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of the organs in your abdomen. It is a safe, painless, and radiation-free investigation that gives a consultant sonographer a detailed view of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, spleen, kidneys, pancreas, and abdominal aorta in a single appointment.
At Sonoworld, our upper abdominal ultrasound scan covers the liver, gallbladder, spleen, kidneys, and pancreas. If you also need the bladder and pelvic organs assessed, our abdomen and pelvis scan combines both in one visit.
An abdominal ultrasound can identify a wide range of conditions, including:
Ultrasound is the first-line investigation recommended by NICE for right upper quadrant pain, suspected gallstones, and abnormal liver function tests.
Preparation is essential for a high-quality abdominal scan. Poor preparation is the most common reason for a suboptimal result.
Full preparation instructions are confirmed in your booking confirmation email. If you have any questions, call us on 020 3633 4902.
You will be asked to lie on an examination couch. The sonographer applies a small amount of warm ultrasound gel to your abdomen and moves a handheld probe (transducer) across the skin. The gel improves contact and eliminates air between the probe and the skin, which would otherwise block the sound waves.
The scan is entirely painless. You may be asked to take a deep breath and hold it briefly — this moves the liver and gallbladder downward, improving the view. The scan typically takes 20–30 minutes.
At Sonoworld, your sonographer will explain what they are seeing in real time and give you a verbal summary of the findings before you leave.
You will receive an instant verbal summary of findings at the end of your appointment. A formal written report, prepared by your consultant sonographer, is emailed to you within 24 hours. You can share this report directly with your GP or specialist.
A pattern we see regularly: patients arrive having been told by their GP that their liver function tests are "mildly abnormal" but that they should "wait and see." In many cases, an abdominal ultrasound performed the same week reveals a clear cause — most commonly fatty liver disease or gallstones — that changes the clinical management immediately. Early investigation avoids months of uncertainty and, in some cases, prevents a condition from progressing to a point where it is harder to treat.
No. The scan is entirely painless. You may feel mild pressure from the probe, particularly over tender areas, but there is no discomfort from the ultrasound itself.
Ultrasound can detect many types of abdominal mass and is often the first investigation that identifies a lesion requiring further assessment. It cannot definitively diagnose cancer — that requires biopsy — but it can identify suspicious features that prompt urgent onward referral.
No. You can book directly at Sonoworld without a GP referral. Your written report can then be shared with your GP or specialist.
No. You must fast for 4–6 hours before the scan. Eating causes the gallbladder to contract and the bowel to fill with gas, both of which significantly reduce image quality. Water is permitted.
The ultrasound technology is the same. The difference is access: at Sonoworld you can book within 24–48 hours, choose your appointment time, and receive your verbal results and written report the same day. On the NHS, the average wait for an abdominal ultrasound is currently 6–12 weeks in most areas.
An upper abdominal scan covers the liver, gallbladder, spleen, kidneys, and pancreas. An abdomen and pelvis scan adds the bladder and pelvic organs (uterus and ovaries in women; prostate and seminal vesicles in men). If you have both upper abdominal and pelvic symptoms, the combined scan is more cost-effective.
Sonoworld is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Our sonographers are registered with HCPC and are members of BMUS. All scans are performed at our Marylebone clinic: 29 Weymouth Street, London W1G 7DB.
Same-day and next-day appointments available at our Marylebone clinic. Instant verbal results. Written report within 24 hours. No GP referral required.
Price: £235
Or call us on 020 3633 4902
