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Abdominal organs, kidneys, thyroid, hernias, and soft tissue lumps — all assessed by a consultant-grade sonographer at our Marylebone clinic. Same-day appointments available, with a detailed written report on the day.
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General medical ultrasound covers a broad range of clinical concerns — from unexplained abdominal pain and suspected gallstones, to a thyroid nodule noticed on a routine check, a hernia that appears when you cough, or a lump under the skin that you want investigated quickly. These are the scans that answer the questions your GP would normally refer you for, but without the wait.
Sonoworld is a CQC-registered diagnostic imaging clinic at 29 Weymouth Street, Marylebone. Every scan is performed by Daniela Stan, a consultant-grade sonographer with over 20 years of experience across NHS and private practice. High-resolution GE Voluson technology is used throughout, and you receive immediate verbal feedback during the appointment alongside a detailed written report on the same day.
General medical ultrasound-scans at Sonoworld cover six distinct clinical areas. Each is described in full below, with preparation requirements, what is assessed, and direct booking links.
High-resolution imaging of the major solid organs, urinary tract, and abdominal aorta
Comprehensive assessment of the upper abdominal organs. Detects gallstones, fatty liver, cysts, organ enlargement, and aortic abnormalities.
Focused assessment of the urinary system. Identifies kidney stones, hydronephrosis, bladder obstruction, cysts, and post-void residual volume.
A complete assessment of the entire abdominal cavity and urinary system in a single appointment. Ideal for generalised abdominal pain or a full health check.
Targeted diagnostics for palpable lumps, swelling, and superficial concerns — no preparation required
Detailed assessment of the thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, and cervical lymph nodes. Detects nodules, goitre, cysts, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and lymphadenopathy.
Dynamic assessment of the abdominal wall, groin, and umbilicus. Confirms the presence of a hernia, identifies the defect site, and assesses for bowel herniation or tissue strangulation.
High-frequency assessment of any superficial lump found on the body. Determines whether a mass is solid or fluid-filled, and characterises features such as vascularity and margins.
Different scans have different preparation requirements. The table below summarises what you need to do before each appointment.
| Scan | Fasting | Full Bladder | Other |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abdominal Scan | ✓ 6 hours | Not required | Water permitted |
| KUB (Kidney) Scan | Not required | ✓ 1L water, 1 hr before | Do not empty bladder before scan |
| Combined Abdomen & Urinary | ✓ 6 hours | ✓ 1L water, 1 hr before | Fast first, then drink water |
| Thyroid & Neck Scan | Not required | Not required | Wear loose neck clothing |
| Hernia Scan | Not required | Not required | Wear loose clothing to the groin/abdomen |
| Lumps & Bumps Scan | Not required | Not required | Ensure the area is accessible |
If you eat within 6 hours of an abdominal scan, the gallbladder contracts and gas fills the bowel — both significantly reduce image quality. The scan may need to be rescheduled. Plain water is always permitted.
NHS waiting times for non-urgent ultrasound referrals frequently exceed 6–12 weeks. A private scan gives you answers within days — or the same day you call.
Urgent concerns are seen quickly. Most appointments are available within 24–48 hours, often on the same day.
A detailed clinical report with annotated images is emailed to you on the day of your appointment — ready to share with your GP.
Daniela Stan has over 20 years of NHS and private sonography experience. Every scan is performed and interpreted by her directly.
Book directly online or by phone. You do not need a GP letter or referral to access any general medical scan at Sonoworld.
Common questions about private general medical ultrasound scans at Sonoworld.
Fasting is required only for scans that include the upper abdomen — specifically the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. You should not eat for 6 hours before the scan, though plain water is permitted throughout. Kidney and bladder scans require a full bladder, not fasting. Thyroid, hernia, and soft tissue scans require no preparation at all.
No GP referral is required. You can book any general medical ultrasound scan directly online or by calling the clinic on 020 3633 4902. If you have previous scan reports or blood test results, bring them to the appointment as they help provide clinical context.
Ultrasound is an excellent first-line tool for identifying suspicious masses, abnormal lymph nodes, and structural changes in organs such as the liver, kidneys, and thyroid. A definitive cancer diagnosis requires biopsy or further imaging such as MRI or CT, which the written report will recommend if indicated. Sonoworld's reports are accepted by NHS consultants and private specialists.
Yes. The Combined Abdomen & Urinary Tract scan covers the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, bladder, and aorta in a single appointment. For other combinations — such as abdomen and thyroid — please call the clinic on 020 3633 4902 to arrange a double appointment slot.
Your written report is emailed to you on the same day as your appointment. It includes a clinical summary, annotated ultrasound images, and — where relevant — recommendations for further investigation or GP follow-up.
A hernia ultrasound scan specifically looks for a defect in the muscle wall where tissue pushes through, and uses dynamic manoeuvres such as asking you to cough or bear down to provoke the hernia. A groin scan may additionally assess lymph nodes and vascular structures. If you have a visible or palpable bulge that appears when you cough or strain, a hernia scan is the correct choice.
Many private health insurance policies cover diagnostic ultrasound scans when a clinical indication is present. Contact your insurer before booking to confirm coverage and obtain an authorisation code. Sonoworld provides itemised receipts and clinical reports suitable for insurance claims.
Sonoworld is located in the heart of Marylebone, a short walk from Regent Street and Oxford Street.
Sonoworld
29 Weymouth Street
Marylebone, London
W1G 7DB
Phone: 020 3633 4902
Email: info@sonoworld.co.uk
Get Directions on Google MapsNearest stations: Regent's Park (Bakerloo) · Great Portland Street (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan) · Bond Street (Central, Jubilee)
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