Abdominal pain, bloating and general discomfort are the most common indication for a general upper abdominal ultrasound scan. However, your doctor may also refer you because you have had an slightly abnormal blood test result as part of general routine check-up, usually called a LFT blood test or liver function test.
Other reasons are for a past history or previous slightly abnormal scan which requires follow-up imaging to see if the body is responding to treatment.
An abdominal ultrasound produces a picture of the organs and other structures in the upper abdomen.
What do we check for on the upper abdominal scan?
The upper abdominal scan is performed trans-abdominally and you will be require to fast from eating for 6 hours prior to your appointment time.
Liver & Right Kidney
The scan will evaluate the size, shape and condition of the:
• Liver
• Kidneys
• Gall bladder / common bile duct
• Spleen
• Pancreas
• Aorta
Gall Stones
Common problems which can show on the scan are:
• Various liver condition, inc, cirrhosis and fatty changes.
• Hydronephrosis
• Gall stones and polyps
• Splenomegaly
• Pancreatitis, acute and chronic.
• Aortic aneurysm
Liver demonstrating normal Doppler blood flow
Common reasons for referral are:
• Abnormal liver function test (LFT’s) from a blood test
• Upper quadrant pain either right, left or both
• Feeling bloating or swelling
