Abdominal Ultrasound
Real-time ultrasound of the abdomen for gallbladder disease, liver evaluation, kidney imaging, and aortic screening.
Find Abdominal Ultrasound near you
What a abdominal ultrasound shows
- Gallstones, cholecystitis, and biliary dilation
- Liver steatosis, lesions, and cirrhosis
- Kidney size, masses, and hydronephrosis
- Pancreatic head evaluation
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening
- Free intraperitoneal fluid
Why your physician orders it
- Right-upper-quadrant pain (suspected gallbladder disease)
- Abnormal liver enzymes
- Suspected kidney stone, infection, or mass
- Aortic aneurysm screening (men 65–75 with smoking history)
- Pregnancy — non-radiation imaging of choice for abdominal pain
Contrast notes
Diagnostic ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation or IV contrast. Microbubble contrast (CEUS) is occasionally used for select liver or vascular indications and is ordered separately when needed.
Prep summary
Most patients don't need special prep beyond completing the MRI/CT safety screening and removing metal jewelry. Specific prep (fasting, contrast, medication timing) is confirmed at scheduling.
Read the full Ultrasound prep guideWhat to expect during the exam
Plan for 30–45 minutes. You'll fast for 6–8 hours beforehand so the gallbladder is distended and bowel gas is reduced. The sonographer applies warm gel and glides a probe across your abdomen, capturing real-time images.
You may be asked to hold your breath briefly or roll onto your side for select views.
Results and report turnaround
Every study is interpreted by a board-certified radiologist — most by fellowship-trained sub-specialists in the relevant body system. Preliminary reads are typically available within a few hours, with the signed final report sent to your ordering provider the same business day.
You can also request a copy of the report and the imaging on disk for your own records or for a second opinion.
Cost and insurance
Most major California insurance plans cover medically necessary abdominal ultrasound when authorized. Our team verifies your benefits before scheduling and tells you up front what — if anything — you'll owe.
We also accept cash pay, workers' compensation, and personal-injury liens. Self-pay rates are published below so there are no surprises at the front desk.
Why patients choose Precise Imaging for Abdominal Ultrasound
Radiation-Free
Safe for pregnancy, pediatric patients, and repeated follow-up.
Registered Sonographers
ARDMS-credentialed technologists at every site.
Sub-Specialty Reads
Vascular, OB, and body radiologists interpret your study.
Every Financial Type
Insurance, cash, workers' comp, and personal injury liens accepted.
Find a abdominal ultrasound location
Our network covers California from San Diego to Sacramento. Use the finder above to see Ultrasound locations near you, or browse the full directory.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast?
Yes — 6–8 hours before the exam so the gallbladder is full and bowel gas is minimized. Plain water is OK.
Is ultrasound safe in pregnancy?
Yes. Ultrasound uses no ionizing radiation and is the preferred imaging test for many abdominal complaints during pregnancy.
How long does the exam take?
30–45 minutes. The exam is painless.
What if I need imaging of just one organ?
Dedicated single-organ ultrasounds (e.g. gallbladder, liver, kidneys) are available — your physician specifies on the order.
How soon will I get the results?
The signed final report is typically delivered the same business day.
How much does it cost?
Insured patients pay their plan's cost-share. We also offer transparent, discounted self-pay rates — call 800-558-2223 for a quote.