Identify gallstones and biliary obstruction
Gallstones are one of the most common causes of upper abdominal pain. Ultrasound can detect stones as small as 1‑2 mm, as well as bile duct obstruction.
Upper abdomen ultrasound is a focused imaging examination that evaluates the organs in the upper abdomen – including the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and the upper abdominal blood vessels. It is one of the most commonly requested ultrasound examinations, particularly for patients with upper abdominal pain, digestive symptoms, or abnormal liver function tests.
This examination is essential for diagnosing gallstones, fatty liver, pancreatitis, liver masses, splenic enlargement, and bile duct obstruction. It is non‑invasive, radiation‑free, and provides real‑time images that help guide diagnosis and treatment.
At Amytri, our upper abdomen ultrasounds are performed by experienced consultant radiologists using state‑of‑the‑art equipment. We follow a systematic protocol to ensure a thorough examination of each organ, and we provide a detailed, actionable report. Our goal is to give you and your doctor the information needed for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Upper abdominal symptoms can be caused by a wide range of conditions. Ultrasound provides a rapid, accurate, and non‑invasive assessment to identify the underlying cause.
Gallstones are one of the most common causes of upper abdominal pain. Ultrasound can detect stones as small as 1‑2 mm, as well as bile duct obstruction.
Ultrasound can detect fatty liver, cirrhosis, and liver masses – providing critical information for patients with abnormal liver function tests or chronic liver disease.
Pancreatic masses, pancreatitis, and splenic enlargement can all be identified on ultrasound – guiding further investigation or treatment.
We examine each organ systematically, using a standardised protocol to ensure no structure is overlooked.
We assess liver size, echogenicity (fatty infiltration), and the presence of focal lesions – cysts, hemangiomas, or tumours. We evaluate the contour and surface for signs of cirrhosis.
We evaluate the gallbladder wall thickness, the presence of stones (cholelithiasis), sludge, or polyps. We also assess the common bile duct for dilatation.
We visualise the head, body, and tail of the pancreas – looking for masses, calcifications, or signs of pancreatitis. The pancreatic duct may also be assessed.
We measure splenic size and assess for focal lesions, infarction, or splenomegaly, which can indicate haematological or liver disease.
We assess the intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts for dilatation – a sign of obstruction. We also evaluate the portal vein for thrombosis or flow abnormalities.
We measure the aortic diameter to screen for aneurysm, and we assess for lymphadenopathy or free intra‑abdominal fluid (ascites).
We ask you to fast for 6‑8 hours before the scan (no food or drink) to ensure the gallbladder is distended and the view of the upper abdomen is clear. You may take necessary medications with a small sip of water.
You lie on your back on the examination table. The radiologist applies gel to your upper abdomen and uses a transducer to scan each organ. You may be asked to take deep breaths or turn to your side to improve visualisation.
The radiologist reviews the images and provides a comprehensive report, noting any abnormalities, measurements, and conclusions. The report is shared with your referring doctor.
We discuss the findings with you (where appropriate) and recommend further steps – which may include additional imaging, laboratory tests, or specialist referral.
It is a key investigation for a wide range of upper abdominal symptoms and conditions.
Pain in the right upper quadrant, epigastric region, or left upper quadrant – ultrasound can identify gallstones, liver disease, or pancreatitis.
Elevated liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP, GGT) – ultrasound can assess for fatty liver, cirrhosis, or biliary obstruction.
Jaundice may indicate biliary obstruction – ultrasound can identify gallstones or bile duct dilatation as the cause.
Persistent digestive symptoms may indicate gall bladder, liver, or pancreatic disease – ultrasound can provide answers.
Patients with fatty liver, gallstones, or chronic pancreatitis benefit from regular ultrasound surveillance.
Systemic symptoms may indicate abdominal pathology – ultrasound helps screen for masses or infection.
Dr. Abhishek has extensive experience in abdominal ultrasound, with a special focus on hepatobiliary and pancreatic imaging. He is skilled in detecting subtle findings that guide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
If you are coming for a health check‑up or feel anxious about the results, having your partner with you can provide reassurance.
We welcome partners to attend the ultrasound. We explain what we are seeing, show you the images on screen, and discuss the findings. Your partner's presence can be helpful for understanding the results and planning next steps together.
It is a focused ultrasound examination that evaluates the organs in the upper abdomen – the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and upper abdominal blood vessels – to diagnose digestive and hepatobiliary conditions.
Yes, we ask you to fast for 6‑8 hours (no food or drink) to ensure the gallbladder is distended and the view of the upper abdomen is clear. You may take necessary medications with a small sip of water.
No, unlike a pelvic or whole abdomen scan, a full bladder is not required for an upper abdomen ultrasound. In fact, an empty bladder is preferred as it does not interfere with the view of the upper abdomen.
No, the scan is painless. You may feel mild pressure from the transducer as it moves over your upper abdomen, but it is not uncomfortable.
It can detect gallstones, fatty liver, liver cirrhosis, liver masses, pancreatitis, splenic enlargement, bile duct obstruction, and abdominal aortic aneurysm, among others.
Yes, a referral from your doctor is recommended. They will use the results to guide your diagnosis and treatment.
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