Description
Upper Abdominal Scan
An Upper Abdominal Scan is a sonographer abdominal ultrasound scan available to male or female patients over 18 years of age to check the organs and structures in the upper abdomen and will examine the following:
- kidneys
- gall bladdder
- liver
- biliary system
- pancreas
- spleen
- aorta (AAA screen to exclude aortic aneurysm)
Patients who would benefit from this scan:
- abdominal pain
- abnormal gastrointestinal symptoms
- suspected gallstones or gall bladder polyps
- liver disease
- pancreatitis
- men over 64 years old
If you have a higher risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm
If you’re not eligible for AAA screening but you think you’re at higher risk of getting an abdominal aortic aneurysm, talk to a GP about the possibility of getting a scan.
You may be at higher risk of an abdominal aortic aneurysm if:
- people in your family have had an abdominal aortic aneurysm
- you have high blood pressure, diabetes or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- you smoke
What it involves:
- 20 minute appointment
- abdominal scan by an experienced sonographer
- written diagnostic report
- instant access to your online images
How to prepare
- Fast for 8 hours before the scan but you can have water and tea or coffee without milk
- Please drink at least 500ml of water 30 minutes before your appointment time.
You can continue to take any medicines prescribed by your doctor.
You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your scan – ideally trousers or skirt and a top so the sonographer can easily access your abdomen.
Risks
An Upper Abdominal Ultrasound Scan is a safe procedure with no radiation or X-ray exposure and has no side effects.
