Private Abdominal Ultrasound Scan from £199
An abdominal ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of abdominal organs. It is commonly used to assess the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, spleen and abdominal aorta, depending on the examination.
What can a abdominal ultrasound scan assess?
Ultrasound can assess organ size, structure, fluid collections and some stones. It does not show every part of the bowel clearly, and the quality of images can be affected by bowel gas or body habitus.
Why might a clinician recommend this scan?
- Abdominal pain or tenderness
- Suspected gallstones or gallbladder problems
- Assessment of liver or kidney abnormalities
- Investigation of selected abdominal lumps or abnormal blood-test findings
How to prepare
Some abdominal ultrasounds require fasting for several hours, especially when the gallbladder is being assessed. Follow the instructions provided with your appointment; preparation varies by scan.
Safety and limitations
Ultrasound uses no ionising radiation. It is safe for most patients, but it has limitations and may not answer every clinical question. Further imaging or tests may sometimes be recommended.
Ultrasound uses sound waves and does not use ionising radiation.
How does it compare with other scans?
CT or MRI may be used when more detailed cross-sectional imaging is needed. The most appropriate test depends on symptoms, examination and the organ being investigated.
More than a scan: doctor-led care before and after
Your scan is part of a supported care pathway. You do not need to arrange your own referral.
Before your scan: GP consultation
Discuss your symptoms, medical history and concerns with a GP. This helps you understand whether the scan is appropriate and what the examination is intended to investigate. If imaging is clinically appropriate, PrivateScans arranges the referral as part of the process.
After your scan: understand the report
Your images are reviewed and reported by a Consultant Radiologist. Your post-scan GP consultation gives you an opportunity to discuss the report in context, ask questions and understand possible next steps.
Included with your service
- Pre-scan GP consultation
- Private medical referral where appropriate
- Consultant Radiologist’s report
- Digital access to your images and report
- Post-scan GP consultation
- Dedicated Patient Care Team support
Consultation fee: You pay £25 when you book. If you proceed with the scan, the £25 is deducted from the scan price. If you do not proceed, you pay only the £25 consultation fee.
Abdominal ultrasound scan FAQs
Practical answers about booking, preparation, reporting and the clinical pathway.
How much does a private abdominal ultrasound scan cost?
A private abdominal ultrasound scan starts from £199. You pay £25 for the pre-scan GP consultation when you book. If you go ahead with the scan, the £25 is deducted from the scan price. If you decide not to proceed, you only pay the £25 consultation fee. If you are unsure whether this scan is right for you, speak to a doctor today.
Do I need a referral?
No, you do not need to arrange your own referral. You start with a pre-scan GP consultation with PrivateScans. The GP discusses your symptoms and medical history and, if the scan is clinically appropriate, PrivateScans arranges the referral as part of the process.
Who reports my scan?
Your images are reviewed and formally reported by a Consultant Radiologist. The written report explains the imaging findings; your post-scan GP consultation helps you discuss the results in the context of your symptoms and possible next steps.
When will I receive my report?
Your Consultant Radiologist’s report is usually available within 3 days of your scan.
What happens before and after the scan?
Your service includes a pre-scan GP consultation, referral arrangements where imaging is clinically appropriate, the scan, a Consultant Radiologist’s report, digital access to your images and report, a post-scan GP consultation and support from the Patient Care Team.
Do I need to fast?
Do I need to fast? Some abdominal scans require fasting, particularly gallbladder examinations. Your appointment instructions will explain exactly what to do.
Unsure whether this scan is right for you?
Speak to a doctor about your symptoms and the most appropriate next step.