A precise diagnostic assessment to confirm, locate, and characterise hernias of the groin, abdomen, and abdominal wall. Ideal for investigating a suspected inguinal, femoral, umbilical, or incisional hernia. Same-day appointments at our Harley Street clinic.
Not sure if this is the right scan? Call our clinical team for guidance.
A hernia ultrasound-scan is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to identify and characterise hernias — protrusions of tissue or organs through a weakness in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue wall.
Ultrasound is the preferred first-line imaging investigation for suspected hernias of the groin and abdominal wall. It is highly accurate, dynamic (meaning it can be performed whilst the patient coughs or bears down to provoke the hernia), and completely free of radiation. It can confirm the presence of a hernia, identify its type, assess its contents, and determine whether it is reducible — all information that is critical for surgical planning.
At Sonoworld, our consultant sonographers use high-resolution GE ultrasound equipment and a dynamic scanning technique to ensure even small or intermittent hernias are not missed.
Inguinal hernias are the most common type, occurring when tissue protrudes through the inguinal canal in the groin. Femoral hernias occur just below the groin crease and carry a higher risk of strangulation. Both are assessed dynamically — the patient is asked to cough or bear down to make the hernia visible during the scan.
Umbilical hernias occur at the navel and are common in adults, particularly following pregnancy or significant weight gain. Epigastric hernias develop in the midline of the upper abdomen. Ultrasound accurately identifies the defect size, hernia sac contents, and reducibility — all key factors in surgical decision-making.
Incisional hernias develop at the site of a previous surgical scar where the abdominal wall has weakened. Sports hernias (athletic pubalgia) involve a tear or weakness in the posterior inguinal wall and are common in athletes. Dynamic ultrasound is particularly valuable in confirming these diagnoses.
A hernia scan is recommended if you have noticed a lump or bulge in your groin, abdomen, or at the site of a previous scar, particularly if it appears when you stand, cough, or strain.
A hernia ultrasound requires minimal preparation, making it easy to attend at short notice.
Our private hernia scan provides rapid access to expert diagnostic imaging with no hidden costs and no GP referral required.
No hidden costs. No GP referral required.
Book Your Scan OnlineIf you are unsure whether your lump is a hernia or something else, our lumps and bumps scan can assess any superficial soft tissue swelling anywhere on the body.
View Lumps & Bumps Scan →No, you do not need a GP referral to book a private hernia scan at Sonoworld. You can self-refer and book directly online or by phone. If you have been referred by your GP or a surgeon, please bring the referral letter as it helps the sonographer focus the examination on the area of clinical concern.
A dynamic hernia scan is performed both at rest and whilst the patient performs a Valsalva manoeuvre — bearing down or coughing to increase intra-abdominal pressure. This is essential because many hernias are only visible or palpable when intra-abdominal pressure is raised. The dynamic technique significantly increases the sensitivity of the scan and reduces the chance of a false-negative result.
Ultrasound is highly sensitive for groin and abdominal wall hernias when performed dynamically by an experienced sonographer. However, in patients with a high BMI or significant bowel gas, image quality can be reduced. If clinical suspicion remains high despite a normal ultrasound, an MRI of the groin may be recommended as a complementary investigation, particularly for suspected sports hernias.
The scan itself is painless. Some patients with a tender or inflamed hernia may experience mild discomfort when the transducer is applied over the affected area, but the examination is performed gently and the sonographer will always work within your comfort level.
Your consultant sonographer will explain the findings to you immediately after the scan. A comprehensive written report and digital images will be provided on the same day, ready to share with your GP or surgeon to support your onward management and surgical planning.
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