Ultrasound scan of the upper abdomen

This leaflet provides information for patients having an ultrasound scan of the upper abdomen.

What is an ultrasound scan?

An ultrasound scan uses high frequency sound waves (above the audible range) to acquire images of structures within the body.

To perform the ultrasound scan we put ultrasound gel over the area to be scanned and a small plastic probe (transducer) is slowly moved over the area of interest. This probe transmits high frequency sound waves into your body. Based on the reflections of these sound waves, the ultrasound machine then creates images of your organs. Ultrasound imaging is considered to be very safe as it does not use any radiation to acquire the image.

The scan may identify the cause of your symptoms or help to rule out conditions that could cause your symptoms.

Ultrasound scans are performed by sonographers and radiologists (practitioners). Both female and male practitioners undertake these scans and act as chaperones.

Before your ultrasound scan

We ask that you do not eat anything for six hours before your scan and drink clear fluids only (water or squash). This helps to improve the quality of our images, particularly of the gall bladder. If you are diabetic, and fasting for six hours will cause problems, please contact the department in advance of your scan so we can book an appointment at a suitable time.

During your ultrasound scan

The light will be dimmed in the room so the practitioner can see the screen better. You will be asked to lie down on the couch and move your clothes to expose your abdomen. Gel, which may feel cold, is then applied to your skin. The transducer is moved on the surface of the skin over the area of interest. You may be asked to turn on the couch or hold your breath to improve image quality. The scan usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the practitioner will take routine pictures and measurements.

You may be asked some questions relating to your symptoms, and previous medical history. At the end of the scan, you will be given paper towels to wipe the gel off before you dress.

After your scan

After your scan, you can return to your normal daily activities.

The practitioner may be able to provide information about the findings; however, results will be sent back to the clinician who referred you for the scan in approximately seven to ten days.

Benefits

Ultrasound scans do not use radiation and are considered to be a safe non-invasive procedure which can provide clinicians with information to aid diagnosis of a wide range of conditions.

Risks

‘’Ultrasound is now accepted as being of considerable diagnostic value. There is no evidence that diagnostic ultrasound has produced any harm to patients in the time that it has been in regular clinical practice” (British Medical Ultrasound Society 2021).

There is a very low risk of infection from the use of ultrasound gel. This can be reduced by wiping the gel off thoroughly at the end of the scan and washing it off as soon as is practical.

Alternative types of imaging available

Ultrasound is the recommended first line method for investigating common pathologies of the upper abdomen.

Computed tomography (CT) imaging and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are alternative investigations.

Contacts/ further information

Ultrasound Department: 01223 216455

References/ sources of evidence

• Guidelines for Professional Ultrasound Practice – Society of Radiographers and British Medical Ultrasound Society 6th Edition December 2021
• Ultrasound gel: good infection prevention practice (opens in a new tab) – UK Health Security Agency 2022