Abdominal and Renal Ultrasound

What is an Abdominal and Renal Ultrasound?

An abdominal and renal ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the organs inside your abdomen. It is commonly used to examine the:

• Liver
• Gallbladder
• Spleen
• Pancreas
• Kidneys
• Urinary bladder

The scan is safe, does not use radiation, and can help diagnose a wide range of conditions.

Fasting

• Please do not eat for at least 6 hours before your appointment.
• You may drink clear fluids, including water, black tea, or black coffee.
• Please avoid fizzy drinks.

 Full Bladder

• Drink 1 litre of water 1 hour before your scan to ensure your bladder is full.

Medications

• You can take your prescribed medications as normal with water.

Diabetes

• If you are diabetic, please call the ultrasound team. Your appointment time may need to be adjusted.
• You may want to bring a snack to eat after the scan.

Children

• Children are not allowed in the scan room.
• If you are unable to arrange childcare, please bring someone who can supervise them in the waiting area.

Arrival

• Please arrive 10 minutes early and check in at reception.
• If you are more than 10 minutes late, we may not be able to carry out your scan, and you may be asked to rebook.

The Procedure

• You will be asked to lie on your back on an examination couch.
• The sonographer will apply a warm gel to your abdomen.
• A small handheld device (transducer) will be moved across your skin to capture images.
• You may be asked to hold your breath or change position during the scan.
• You may also be asked to empty your bladder mid-scan so we can capture additional images.

Duration

• The scan usually takes 10 – 15 minutes

Post-Procedure

• You can return to normal activities immediately.
• You may eat and drink as usual.

Results

• The sonographer will review the images and send the report to your referring doctor.
• Please do not ask the sonographer for results — they will be given by your GP.
• We recommend calling your GP surgery 7 days after the scan to discuss your results.

Ultrasound is a very safe procedure that:

• Does not involve radiation
• Has no known side effects

It is commonly used in both adults and children.