Abdominal ultrasound scans can be done to look at the organs and blood vessels in the abdomen. The most common reason to have an abdominal ultrasound scan is to find a cause for abdominal pain. However, you may have an abdominal ultrasound scan if you have other symptoms or if your doctor is concerned about the results of other tests, for example blood test results.
Why might I have this scan?
To check the size and condition of the;

• Liver
• Kidneys
• Pancreas
• Gall Bladder
• Spleen
• Abdominal Aorta
• Biliary system

How is this scan performed?
During the ultrasound scan the sonographer will place a warm water-based gel on the area to be examined, and will then press firmly on the skin with an ultrasound probe, moving it around until they have obtained the desired images. The ultrasound scan has no known risks and is usually pain free. When the scan is completed the gel can be wiped off easily using tissue.

What can this scan tell me?

Demonstrates the presence of;

• Gallstones in the gall bladder and the kidneys
• Aneurysm in the aorta (widening of the aortic artery)
• Masses and fat in the liver
• Cysts and tumours in the abdominal organs
• Enlarged organs

What do I get with this scan?
TBC

How can I book an appointment for this scan?
TBC

How do I prepare for this Scan?
For the preparation of the ultrasound scan, you need to fast for 6-8 hours prior to the scan. (Nothing to eat OR drink, except water)

Available to males over the age of 16, this type of scan investigates the shape, size and condition of the Kidneys, Bladder & Prostate (if visible). If you are having bladder problems, or are experiencing an enlarged prostate, this scan would be most beneficial for you.

Why might I have this scan?
To inspect the condition of;

• the bladder (empty & full)
• the kidneys & ureters
• the prostate gland (if visible)

Or if you are experiencing;

• Bladder problems
• Painful Kidneys

How is this scan performed?
During the ultrasound scan the sonographer will place a warm water-based gel on the area to be examined, and will then press firmly on the skin with an ultrasound probe, moving it around until they have obtained the desired images. The ultrasound scan has no known risks and is usually pain free. When the scan is completed the gel can be wiped off easily using tissue.

What can this scan tell me?

• If you are suffering any effects of (UTI) urinary tract infections
• If you are suffering from prostate enlargement
• What is causing obstructions due to stones in the kidney / bladder
• Possible causes of persistent bladder problems

What do I get with this scan?
TBC

How can I book an appointment for this scan?
TBC

How do I prepare for this Scan?
Preparation for the ultrasound scan varies depending on which organs the Radiologist or Sonographer want to examine. At the time of the booking we will provide you with the correct preparation based on the type of ultrasound scan you need. For a renal scan you need to drink 1 -2 pints of water 1 hour before the scan, if this is comfortable for you and please do not empty your bladder.

Available for men aged 60 and above, the abdominal aorta scan can provide a view of the heart and iliac arteries, and may be performed to look for possible aortic aneurisms. If the main artery (the aorta) that carries blood from the heart is enlarged by an aortic aneurysm, it may rupture with alarming effects.

Why might I have this scan?
To investigates the shape, size and condition of;

• The aorta
• Iliac arteries

How is this scan performed?
During the ultrasound scan the sonographer will place a warm water-based gel on the area to be examined, and will then press firmly on the skin with an ultrasound probe, moving it around until they have obtained the desired images. The ultrasound scan has no known risks and is usually pain free. When the scan is completed the gel can be wiped off easily using tissue.

What can this scan tell me?

• Detect an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)
• Measures the diameter of the abdominal aorta
• Monitor the level of aortic dilation.
• There will be a further evaluation of the kidneys & renal arteries, if an aneurysm is visible.

What do I get with this scan?
TBC

How can I book an appointment for this scan?
TBC

How do I prepare for this Scan?
There is no preparation needed for this scan.

Available to males 45 years and over, the Carotid Scan is a type of ultrasound scan that includes the use of a Doppler. It will help to examine the carotid arteries, and check if there is any plaque build-up causing narrowing of the arteries themselves.

Why might I have this scan?
To examine the condition & blood flow through the;

• Carotid arteries (internal & external)
• Common carotid arteries (origin to bifurcation)
• Vertebral arteries
• Prevent carotid artery disease
• Prevent a stroke

How is this scan performed?
During the ultrasound scan the sonographer will place a warm water-based gel on the area to be examined, and will then press firmly on the skin with an ultrasound probe, moving it around until they have obtained the desired images. The ultrasound scan has no known risks and is usually pain free. When the scan is completed the gel can be wiped off easily using tissue. A Doppler may also be used in this scan to check blood flow.

What can this scan tell me?

• Detect blood clots that may cause carotid artery disease or strokes
• If you have plaque build-up
• If you have narrowing of the carotid arteries

What do I get with this scan?
TBC

How can I book an appointment for this scan?
TBC

How do I prepare for this Scan?
There is no preparation needed for this scan.