Private Knee Ultrasound Scan from £199
A knee ultrasound uses sound waves to examine tendons, bursae, fluid collections and other accessible soft tissues around the knee. It can assess some structures dynamically while the knee moves.
What can a knee ultrasound scan assess?
Ultrasound can assess accessible tendons, fluid and superficial soft tissues. It does not show the internal menisci, cruciate ligaments or bone marrow as comprehensively as MRI.
Why might a clinician recommend this scan?
- Swelling or fluid around the knee
- Suspected tendon problems or bursitis
- Assessment of a Baker's cyst or other superficial lump
- Investigation of selected soft-tissue symptoms around the joint
How to prepare
Usually no special preparation is required. Wear clothing that allows the knee to be exposed and tell the team about recent injury, surgery or previous imaging.
Safety and limitations
Ultrasound uses no ionising radiation. It is not the best examination for every knee problem; a clinician may recommend MRI or X-ray depending on the suspected cause.
Ultrasound uses sound waves and does not use ionising radiation.
How does it compare with other scans?
X-ray is useful for bones and arthritis; MRI provides more comprehensive assessment of internal joint structures such as menisci and cruciate ligaments.
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.
Knee ultrasound scan FAQs
Practical answers about booking, preparation, reporting and the clinical pathway.
How much does a private knee ultrasound scan cost?
A private knee 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.
Can ultrasound show a meniscal tear?
Ultrasound is limited for internal menisci; MRI is usually more suitable when a meniscal injury is suspected.
Unsure whether this scan is right for you?
Speak to a doctor about your symptoms and the most appropriate next step.