Liver Ultrasound

Liver Ultrasound

A private liver ultrasound at Vitalscan provides fast, detailed imaging of the liver and surrounding structures. Whether you have received abnormal liver function results, are experiencing abdominal symptoms, or simply want clarity, our CQC-registered clinic offers same-day appointments with no GP referral required.

  Clinician advice included

No GP referral needed

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Our pricing

A detailed liver assessment at a single, transparent price.

An ultrasound machine on a wheeled cart, displaying a greyscale scan on its monitor, with a control panel, keyboard, and two transducer probes visible
Liver Ultrasound

£175

Why book this scan?
  • Investigate abnormal liver function blood test results
  • Assess the liver for signs of fatty liver, cysts, or lesions
  • Investigate upper abdominal pain, discomfort, or bloating
  • Check the bile ducts and gallbladder as part of the assessment
  • Monitor a known liver condition with a timely private scan
  • Written report to share with your GP or specialist

When booking: A liver ultrasound is booked under Upper Abdomen Ultrasound in our online booking system. This covers assessment of the liver and surrounding upper abdominal structures.

What your
Liver Ultrasound includes

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

  • Assessment of liver size, shape, and texture
  • Evaluation of liver echogenicity (fatty change assessment)
  • Identification of liver cysts, masses, or lesions
  • Assessment of the bile ducts for dilation or obstruction
  • Gallbladder assessment where clinically appropriate
  • Portal vein and hepatic vessel evaluation
  • Assessment of surrounding structures
  • Written report within 3 to 5 working days

When to Book a Liver Ultrasound

A private liver ultrasound is suitable for anyone experiencing liver-related symptoms or who has received results that suggest the liver may need further investigation. Common reasons to book include:

  • Abnormal liver function blood test results
  • Unexplained fatigue or weight loss
  • Abdominal bloating or a feeling of fullness
  • Unexplained symptoms with no current diagnosis
  • Upper right abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Suspected fatty liver disease
  • Monitoring a previously identified liver condition
  • Jaundice or yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • Concerns related to alcohol consumption
  • Raised bilirubin, ALT, AST, GGT, or ALP on blood tests

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

What does a Liver Ultrasound show?

A liver ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of the liver and surrounding structures. It is one of the most widely used first-line investigations for liver symptoms and abnormal blood test results, offering a safe and detailed assessment without radiation.

Liver Size and Structure

The scan assesses whether the liver is enlarged or reduced in size, and evaluates the overall shape and surface of the organ. An irregular liver surface can be associated with cirrhosis or chronic liver disease.

Fatty Liver Disease

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

Liver Cysts 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.

 

Bile Ducts

Dilation of the bile ducts can indicate obstruction, which may be caused by gallstones, inflammation, or other conditions. This is assessed as standard.

Gallbladder

Where clinically appropriate, the gallbladder is assessed as part of the upper abdominal evaluation. This can identify gallstones, gallbladder wall thickening, or other changes.

If the gallbladder is your main concern, see our gallbladder ultrasound page. 

Blood Vessels

The portal vein and hepatic vessels are assessed for any changes in appearance that may be clinically relevant.

What a Liver Ultrasound cannot show

Ultrasound provides detailed anatomical imaging but does not assess liver function directly. Liver function is measured through blood tests. Some small lesions or early changes may not be visible on ultrasound, 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 liver blood test?

A liver ultrasound assesses the structure of the liver. A liver health blood test measures how well the liver is functioning. Many patients benefit from both. Vitalscan offers a dedicated liver health blood test from £75.

Understanding your Liver 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, gastroenterologist, or specialist.

Common findings on a liver ultrasound include fatty liver changes, simple cysts, and gallstones. 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 Liver Ultrasound

Private liver ultrasound scans at Vitalscan are self-pay only at £175. We do not accept private medical insurance for this service, and the cost cannot be claimed through your insurer. Payment must be made in full 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 Upper Abdomen Ultrasound. 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, gastroenterologist, or any other specialist to support next steps in your care.

Where your Liver Ultrasound Scan takes place

Your liver 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 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.

Liver Ultrasound FAQs

A liver ultrasound shows the size, shape, and texture of the liver, and can identify fatty liver disease, cysts, lesions, and bile duct dilation. It does not assess liver function directly, which is measured through blood tests.

No. You can book a private liver ultrasound at Vitalscan directly, without a GP referral. If you are unsure whether this scan is appropriate for your symptoms, our team can advise you when you call.

A private liver ultrasound at Vitalscan costs £175. This includes the scan, assessment by our clinical team, and a written report issued within 3 to 5 working days.

Preparation is usually required, which may include fasting for a period beforehand to ensure the clearest possible images. You will be advised on the specific preparation needed when you book your appointment.

Yes. Fatty liver causes the liver to appear brighter than normal on ultrasound. It is one of the primary methods used to identify fatty liver and can detect both non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcohol-related changes.

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.

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.

Patient reviews

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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