An abdominal ultrasound scan is a simple investigation that is performed to examine the internal organs of the abdomen, including the gallbladder, liver, pancreas, kidneys, bladder, spleen and abdominal aorta.
Why have an abdominal ultrasound scan?
Abdominal pain is the most common indication for an ultrasound scan. It may help your doctor determine the cause of the pain, such as stones in the gallbladder. It can also show more serious diseases such as some forms of cancer. An aneurysm or widening of the abdominal aorta can be seen easily on an ultrasound scan and by identifying this condition will allow for action to be taken before it ruptures.
A scan of the kidneys and bladder can detect a variety of complaints and conditions including stones, infections, tumours, congenital abnormalities (these are abnormalities that you have been born with) and problems related to the prostate gland in men.
Doctors sometimes refer patients for an abdominal ultrasound because they feel generally unwell or their blood test results are abnormal. The ultrasound may identify causes for this and may help the doctor in planning further management.
Do I need to prepare for this scan?
For this scan you may be asked not to eat or drink for 6 hours before your appointment time and then drink 2 pints of fluid at least 1 hour prior to your examination and avoid urinating, so that your bladder is full when the scan begins. We know this can be difficult for some people and we will discuss any worries you have when you make an appointment.
Upper Abdominal Scan
Have NOTHING to eat for 6 hours prior to your examination. You may drink clear fluids such as water, squash, black tea or coffee. The Ultrasound probe will be passed over the upper abdomen and this does not usually cause discomfort or pain. If you are diabetic or have other concerns over medication, please contact us on 01883 734038 or email us on ultrasound.oxtedhealthcentre@nhs.net
Renal Tract Scan
A VERY FULL BLADDER is necessary for this scan to be successful. Please drink 1 pint of water or other clear fluid one hour before your appointment time and DO NOT empty your bladder prior to the examination. The Ultrasound probe will be passed over the lower abdomen and this does not usually cause discomfort or pain.
If you have any queries please contact us on 01883 734038 or email us on ultrasound.oxtedhealthcentre@nhs.net
Abdominal and Renal Tract Scan
How do I get the results?
After the examination the sonographer will explain the findings to you however as we do not always have your full medical history or all your test results so we may not be able to comment on everything we see on the scan. A report will be sent to your doctor after the examination. You will be asked to make an contact the doctor who referred you for the scan and they will discuss the results of the scan with you.
