Ultrasounds2026-05-27T14:12:51+00:00

Ultrasounds

Ultrasounds

A safe and quick diagnostic test performed by a specialist radiologist to acquire detailed images of the body.

  Clinician advice included

No GP referral needed

Share results anywhere

What is an ultrasound scan?

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the inside of the body. It is safe, non-invasive and does not use radiation. A small amount of gel is applied to the skin, and a handheld probe is moved over the area being examined. The images appear on a monitor and are interpreted by a consultant radiologist to produce a clear diagnostic report.

Ultrasound is the first-line investigation for many abdominal, pelvic, thyroid and musculoskeletal symptoms. It provides high-resolution real-time images that make it particularly well suited for assessing the thyroid, testes and soft tissues. Most appointments take between 10 and 30 minutes.

Some scan types require preparation. Abdominal scans often require fasting beforehand. Pelvic or bladder scans may require a full bladder on arrival. Other scan types need no special preparation at all. You will receive clear instructions when you book.

Our pricing

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Private Ultrasound

£150

All standard ultrasound scans at Vitalscan are priced at £150. This includes your appointment, the scan itself, and a clear written report from a consultant radiologist that you can share with any healthcare professional.

Vitalscan ultrasound services are self-pay only. We do not accept private medical insurance for ultrasound appointments, and costs cannot be claimed through an insurer. Payment is required in full at the time of booking.

Ultrasound-guided joint injections are available for £600 on specialist referral only. Please call us for more information.

Paying for your Ultrasound

All ultrasound services offered by Vitalscan are self-pay only. We do not accept private medical insurance for these tests, and they cannot be claimed through your insurer. Payment must be made in full at the time of booking.

How the process works

Step 1

Book your ultrasound scan

Choose your scan type and book online or by phone. No GP referral is needed for most scan types. You will receive any preparation instructions at the time of booking, such as fasting or arriving with a full bladder, depending on the scan you choose.

Step 2

Attend your appointment

Your appointment takes place in a private clinical room at our clinic. A consultant radiologist will apply gel to the area being examined and use a handheld probe to capture live images. The scan is non-invasive, does not use radiation, and typically takes between 10 and 30 minutes.

Step 3

Your scan is assessed

Your images are reviewed and reported by a consultant radiologist, taking into account the area examined, your symptoms and the reason for your appointment.

Step 4

Receive your report

You will receive a clear written report explaining the findings in plain language, typically within 3 to 5 working days. You can share your results with your GP, a consultant, or any other healthcare professional you choose.

Body Regions Covered

Ultrasound scans are a safe, fast, and non-invasive way to examine soft tissues, organs, and blood flow in real time. At Vitalscan, all ultrasound appointments take place in private consultation rooms, with same-day imaging and expert reports delivered quickly and discreetly. All Vitalscan Ultrasounds are carried out by Consultant Doctors.

Abdomen

Liver

Gallbladder

Kidneys & Urinary Bladder

Pancreas

Spleen

Aorta

Neck

Thyroid

Lymph Nodes

Pelvis

Uterus & Ovaries

Testes

Groin

Joints

Shoulder

Wrist

Ankle

Elbow

Ultrasound Guided Joint Injections

Specialist referral only. For more information, please call us.

Note on Ultrasound Examinations

Most ultrasound examinations at Vitalscan are performed by consultant radiologists, ensuring expert imaging and clinical accuracy every time.

Understanding your private ultrasound results

Your ultrasound report is written by a consultant radiologist and explains the findings from your scan in clear, plain language. You do not need a medical background to understand it.

What the report includes

A description of what was seen, what appears normal, and any findings that may need attention.

When you receive it

Your written report is typically ready within 3 to 5 working days of your appointment.

Sharing your results

Your results are yours to keep. Share them with your GP, a specialist, or any healthcare professional you choose.

Further investigation

Where a follow-up test or specialist referral is recommended, this will be clearly stated in your report with the reason why.

Most findings provide useful reassurance. Where something does need further investigation, your report gives you a clear starting point to take to your GP or a specialist of your choice.

Early Pregnancy Scans

Get clarity and reassurance in the early stages of pregnancy with our consultant-led scans. Each appointment provides expert assessment, immediate insights, and the opportunity to discuss any concerns in a calm, supportive environment. Designed to give you confidence and peace of mind when you need it most.

Comfort & convience

We’ve designed our ultrasound service with your comfort in mind. Using the latest scanning technology, we ensure clear, accurate results while making your experience as relaxing as possible. Each room features a ceiling-mounted TV screen, so you can view your scan without needing to turn your head.

You’ll also have access to private consultation rooms for a more personal discussion with our clinicians, and complimentary tea, coffee, and water are available during your visit.

Why choose Vitalscan?

  • All scans performed by consultant radiologists, ensuring expert imaging and clinical accuracy
  • No GP referral needed for most scan types, with same-day appointments often available
  • Transparent pricing at £150 per scan, with no hidden costs
  • Private, comfortable setting with complimentary tea, coffee and water on arrival
  • Clear written report in plain language, ready to share with any healthcare professional
  • CQC registered diagnostic imaging service, operating to the highest clinical standards

Where would my ultrasound take place?

Your ultrasound scan will be carried out at Vitalscan, located at 100 Avebury Boulevard, Milton Keynes, MK9 1FH.

Our clinic features private consultation rooms with ceiling-mounted screens so you can view your scan comfortably during your appointment.

Complimentary refreshments are available on arrival.

Partnered with leading
health insurance providers

Partnered with leading health insurance providers

Getting the diagnostic tests you need shouldn’t be complicated. We’re proud to work with leading health insurance providers to make access to our services as seamless as possible.

Our Patient Pathway

Complete Booking

Schedule your test online.

Confirmation

Receive booking info instantly.

Quality Check

Ensure test accuracy & safety.

Test Day

Attend your appointment.

Receive Results

Get your test results quickly.

Sharing Report

Share findings with your doctor.

Ready to book your ultrasound?

Ready to
book your test?

Booking your ultrasound is quick and easy – no referral needed and appointments available as soon as the same day. Get fast, accurate results for peace of mind.

Ultrasound FAQs

How much does a private ultrasound cost in the UK?2026-05-01T07:16:24+00:00

A private ultrasound scan at VitalScan costs £150. This includes your appointment, ultrasound scan and a clear report that can be shared with your GP, consultant or healthcare professional if further advice or follow up is needed.

Can you get a private ultrasound without a referral?2026-05-01T07:16:40+00:00

Many private ultrasound scans can be booked without a GP referral. However, some symptoms or scan types may require further clinical guidance. If your symptoms are urgent or serious, seek medical advice promptly.

Are private ultrasounds safe?2026-05-01T07:16:56+00:00

Ultrasound scans are generally considered safe and do not use radiation. They use sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. Your clinician will explain what to expect and whether the scan is suitable for your symptoms.

What can an ultrasound scan detect?2026-05-01T07:17:12+00:00

An ultrasound scan can help assess organs, soft tissues, blood vessels, muscles, tendons and joints depending on the scan type. It may detect cysts, gallstones, inflammation, lumps, fluid, organ changes, tendon injuries or other findings. The exact information depends on the area scanned.

Can an ultrasound detect cancer?2026-05-27T11:38:28+00:00

Ultrasound can sometimes identify suspicious lumps, masses or organ changes, but it cannot always confirm cancer on its own. If a concerning finding is seen, further tests or specialist referral may be recommended.

Do I need to prepare for an ultrasound scan?2026-05-01T07:23:45+00:00

Preparation depends on the scan type. Some abdominal scans may require fasting. Some pelvic or bladder scans may require a full bladder. Other scans may not need special preparation. You will be told what to do before your appointment.

Will the ultrasound scan hurt?2026-05-01T07:23:59+00:00

Most ultrasound scans are not painful. You may feel gentle pressure from the probe, especially if the area is tender. The clinician will aim to keep you as comfortable as possible.

Is ultrasound the same as an MRI or CT scan?2026-05-01T07:24:13+00:00

No. Ultrasound uses sound waves, MRI uses magnetic fields and CT uses X rays. Each scan type is suited to different clinical questions. In some cases, your clinician may recommend a different scan if ultrasound is not the most suitable option.

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