Abdominal Ultrasound Scan2026-10-02T11:24:25+00:00

Abdominal Ultrasound Scan

Abdominal Ultrasound Scan

A private abdominal ultrasound at Vitalscan gives a clear view of the organs inside your abdomen, including the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen and kidneys. Whether you have abdominal pain, abnormal blood test results, or symptoms with no clear explanation, our CQC-registered clinic offers same-day appointments with no GP referral required.

Clinician advice included

No GP referral needed

Share results anywhere

Our pricing

A detailed abdominal assessment at a single, transparent price.

Abdominal Ultrasound

£150

Why book this scan?
  • Investigate abdominal pain, bloating or discomfort
  • Follow up abnormal liver or kidney function blood test results
  • Check for gallstones, cysts, lesions or organ enlargement

  • Assess unexplained weight loss, nausea or loss of appetite

  • Monitor a condition already identified without waiting for a referral
  • Written report to share with your GP or specialist

An abdominal ultrasound is booked under Upper Abdomen Ultrasound in our online booking system. This covers the liver, gallbladder, pancreas and spleen. If you are unsure which scan suits your symptoms, call us on 01908 755556 and our team will help you choose.

Choosing the right Abdominal Scan

Booking by region means your scan is focused on the area causing concern, and your report is specific to it. If you are not sure which is right for you, our team can advise when you call.

Upper Abdomen

Assessment of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas and spleen. The usual choice for upper abdominal pain, gallstone symptoms or abnormal liver function results.

Booked as: Upper Abdomen Ultrasound

Kidneys and Bladder

Assessment of both kidneys and the urinary bladder. Suitable for flank pain, urinary symptoms, suspected kidney stones or abnormal kidney function results.

Booked as: Kidneys and Bladder

Abdominal Aorta

Assessment of the abdominal aorta, the main blood vessel running through the abdomen. This is booked under the Vascular and Blood Vessels section of our booking system rather than Abdomen and Pelvis.

Booked as: Abdominal Aorta Ultrasound

Pelvic and Reproductive Organs

Scans of the uterus, ovaries or testes are booked separately from abdominal scans. See our pelvic ultrasound page for the options available.

What your
Abdominal Ultrasound includes

Each private abdominal ultrasound at Vitalscan is a thorough assessment of the organs in the area being scanned. A written report is produced following the scan and issued within 3 to 5 working days, for you to share with your GP or any specialist involved in your care.

  • Assessment of organ size, shape and texture
  • Evaluation of tissue appearance and density
  • Identification of cysts, masses or lesions
  • Assessment of the bile ducts or urinary tract, depending on the scan
  • Identification of gallstones or kidney stones
  • Assessment of surrounding structures and blood vessels
  • Check for free fluid within the abdomen
  • Written report within 3 to 5 working days

When to book an Abdominal Ultrasound

A private abdominal ultrasound is suitable for anyone with abdominal symptoms, or who has had results suggesting an organ needs a closer look. Common reasons to book include:

  • Abdominal pain, cramping or tenderness
  • Bloating or a persistent feeling of fullness
  • Abnormal liver or kidney function blood test results
  • Suspected gallstones
  • Unexplained nausea or loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
  • Pain in the side or lower back
  • Blood in the urine or other urinary symptoms
  • Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • Monitoring a condition that has already been identified

You do not need a GP referral to book. If you are unsure which scan is appropriate for your symptoms, our team can advise you when you call.

What does an Abdominal Ultrasound show?

An abdominal ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of the organs inside the abdomen. It is one of the most widely used first-line investigations for abdominal symptoms and abnormal blood test results, giving a detailed assessment without radiation.

Organ Size and Structure

The scan shows whether an organ is enlarged, reduced in size or irregular in shape, and assesses the overall texture of the tissue. Changes in appearance can point to inflammation or longer-term disease.

Gallstones and Bile Ducts

Gallstones are clearly visible on ultrasound and are one of the most common findings. Widening of the bile ducts can indicate an obstruction, which may need further investigation.

Fatty Change in the Liver

A liver affected by fat deposits appears brighter than normal on ultrasound. This is a common finding associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and alcohol-related liver disease.

Cysts, Masses and Lesions

The scan can identify fluid-filled cysts, which are often benign, as well as solid lesions or masses that may require further investigation with MRI or CT imaging.

Kidney Stones and Obstruction

Stones, swelling of the kidney and changes within the urinary tract can all be identified. Ultrasound is a common first-line investigation for suspected kidney stones.

Free Fluid and Blood Vessels

Fluid collecting within the abdomen can be identified, and the major abdominal blood vessels assessed for any changes in size or appearance that may be clinically relevant.

What an Abdominal Ultrasound cannot show

Ultrasound gives detailed images of the structure of the abdominal organs, but it does not measure how well they are functioning. Organ function is assessed through blood tests. Sound waves also do not pass through gas, so parts of the bowel and areas behind it can be difficult to see clearly. Small or early changes may not be visible, and further imaging such as an MRI or CT scan may be recommended if clinical concern remains. Your written report will clearly outline findings and recommend next steps where appropriate.

Considering a blood test?

An abdominal ultrasound assesses the structure of your organs. A blood test measures how well they are functioning. Many patients benefit from both. Vitalscan offers a dedicated liver health blood test from £75.

Understanding your Abdominal Ultrasound results

Your written report is prepared by our clinical team following the scan and issued within 3 to 5 working days. The report outlines the findings from each area assessed and is written to be shared with your GP or specialist.

Common findings on an abdominal ultrasound include gallstones, simple cysts and fatty change in the liver. Not all findings require immediate intervention. Your report will indicate whether findings are likely benign, require monitoring, or warrant further investigation. If anything identified during the scan requires prompt attention, our team will contact you directly.

Paying for your Abdominal Ultrasound

Private abdominal ultrasound scans at Vitalscan are available on a self-pay basis from £150. We also work with a number of leading health insurance providers. Please contact us or check with your insurer to confirm whether your policy covers diagnostic ultrasound. Payment is required at the time of booking.

How the process works

From booking to receiving your written report, a clear, simple journey at our Milton Keynes clinic.

Step 1

Book Your Scan

Book online or by phone, selecting the scan that matches your symptoms. No GP referral is needed. You will be advised on any preparation required, such as fasting, when you book. Same-day appointments are available.

Step 2

Attend Your Appointment

Your scan takes place in a private consultation room at our Milton Keynes clinic. Ultrasound gel is applied to the abdomen and the scan is performed by our clinical team using high-resolution imaging equipment.

Step 3

Scan Assessment

Images are assessed by our clinical team. If any findings require prompt attention, you will be contacted directly before your formal report is issued.

Step 4

Receive Your Report

A written report is issued within 3 to 5 working days. You can share this with your GP or any other specialist to support next steps in your care.

Where your Abdominal Ultrasound Scan takes place

Your abdominal ultrasound takes place at Vitalscan, 100 Avebury Boulevard, Milton Keynes, MK9 1FH. Our private consultation rooms are designed to be calm and comfortable. Complimentary tea, coffee and water are available on arrival.

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 Ultrasound?

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

Abdominal Ultrasound FAQs

What does an abdominal ultrasound show?2026-09-28T12:04:26+00:00

An abdominal ultrasound shows the size, shape and texture of the abdominal organs, including the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen and kidneys. It can identify gallstones, cysts, lesions, kidney stones and fatty change in the liver. It does not assess organ function, which is measured through blood tests.

Do I need a GP referral for a private abdominal ultrasound?2026-09-28T12:17:21+00:00

No. You can book a private abdominal ultrasound at Vitalscan directly, without a GP referral. If you are unsure which scan is right for your symptoms, our team can talk you through the options when you call and help you choose the correct appointment.

How much does a private abdominal ultrasound cost?2026-09-28T12:17:16+00:00

A private abdominal ultrasound at Vitalscan costs £150. This includes the scan, assessment by our clinical team, and a written report issued within 3 to 5 working days that you can share with your GP or specialist.

Do I need to fast before an abdominal ultrasound?2026-09-28T12:17:12+00:00

Preparation is usually required and may include fasting for a period beforehand to ensure the clearest possible images. Some scans require a full bladder instead. You will be advised on the specific preparation needed for your appointment when you book.

What does an upper abdomen ultrasound cover?2026-09-28T12:17:07+00:00

An upper abdomen ultrasound assesses the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas and spleen. The kidneys, bladder and abdominal aorta are assessed under separate appointments. Booking by region keeps each scan focused and means your report covers the area of concern in detail.

Is an abdominal ultrasound safe?2026-09-28T12:17:00+00:00

Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images and does not use radiation. It is a safe, well-established diagnostic tool used routinely across all areas of medicine, and there is no recovery time needed afterwards.

What happens if something is found during the abdominal ultrasound scan?2026-09-28T12:16:55+00:00

If the scan identifies anything requiring prompt attention, our clinical team will contact you directly. Your written report will outline all findings and recommend next steps, whether that is monitoring, a follow-up scan, or onward referral to a specialist.

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Contact

01908 755556

100 Avebury Boulevard,
Milton Keynes, MK9 1FH

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Legal

Vitalscan is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and operates in accordance with all applicable healthcare standards. Our location ID is 1-14644634325. Our diagnostic imaging services are designed to support clinical decision-making but do not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own healthcare professional.

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