Why Do GPs Request an Ultrasound Scan?
An ultrasound scan may be requested to look for conditions such as abscesses, cysts, areas of infection, tumours, fluid collects and blockages in blood vessels. Reasons for an abdominal ultrasound scan may include looking for gallstones or obstructions, obstruction to the kidneys, fatty liver changes or lesions within the liver to name but a few.
Preparing for an Abdominal Ultrasound Scan
Before an abdominal scan, especially when examining gallstones, you should fast for 6-8 hours and have a fat-free (greasy) dinner the night before. You can have clear fluids up to 6 hours before. Ideally, if you can fast for 8-12 hours before your scan this is best, as this reduces gas formation within the bowel.
When the ultrasound is for kidney examination, you will be asked to drink 6-8 glasses of water about an hour before the procedure.
Why Come to Us?
The Health Suite works with experienced medical consultant radiologists to complete your scan, who are very knowledgeable. The consultant will speak to you during your scan to advise of any actions that may need to be taken. A formal report is sent to you after your scan.
Common Q&A about Abdominal Ultrasound Scan
An abdominal ultrasound scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of the organs and structures within the abdomen. It helps in diagnosing various conditions affecting the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, and blood vessels.
Abdominal ultrasounds are performed to evaluate symptoms such as abdominal pain, swelling, or the presence of masses. They can help diagnose conditions like gallstones, liver disease, kidney stones, or tumours and assess blood flow to abdominal organs.
Preparation varies depending on the specific area being examined. Generally, patients may be advised to fast for 8-12 hours before the scan to ensure clear images. For certain examinations, you may be instructed to drink water beforehand.
During the ultrasound, you will lie on an examination table. A technician will apply a gel to your abdomen and use a handheld device called a transducer to transmit sound waves. You may be asked to change positions to get different views.
No, an abdominal ultrasound is a painless procedure. The gel used may feel cool, and the transducer might cause some mild pressure, but it should not be uncomfortable.
The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the examination and the number of areas being assessed.
Abdominal ultrasounds are considered very safe. They do not involve radiation, making them a low-risk option for imaging. However, certain conditions may not be fully evaluated with ultrasound alone, requiring further tests.
Results are usually available within a few days after the scan. The technician will not provide results during the procedure; instead, a radiologist will analyze the images and send a report to your doctor, who will discuss the findings with you.
It depends on the specific instructions given by your healthcare provider. For some exams, you may need to fast for several hours, while others may require you to drink water before the scan.
Abdominal ultrasounds can help diagnose a range of conditions, including gallstones, liver diseases (like cirrhosis or tumours), kidney stones, pancreatitis, and fluid accumulation in the abdomen. They can also guide procedures like biopsies.