Palmetto Preventive
Outpatient Ultrasound

Complete Abdominal Ultrasound

This ultrasound examines the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, kidneys, spleen, and the visible parts of the pancreas and major abdominal vessels.

What the exam evaluates

  • The liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts
  • The pancreas and spleen
  • The kidneys and surrounding structures

Common reasons for this exam

  • Clinician evaluation of persistent upper abdominal discomfort or suspected gallstones.
  • Abnormal liver blood tests or suspected organ enlargement.
  • Follow-up of a previously identified cyst or other abdominal finding.

Approximate duration

Most exams take about 30 to 45 minutes once approved. You can typically return to normal activities immediately afterward.

What to expect

The sonographer applies gel and moves a handheld probe over your skin. You may be asked to change position or briefly hold your breath. Pressure over a tender area can be uncomfortable; tell the sonographer so they can adjust. Ultrasound uses sound waves, with no ionizing radiation. You can usually resume normal activities afterward.

How to prepare

Follow your appointment instructions

  • This exam must be scheduled at least three days in advance so the appropriate sonographer can be available.
  • The team will confirm whether to fast and for how long. Abdominal imaging may need a period without food to improve views of the gallbladder and reduce bowel gas.
  • Ask about water and medicines when fasting is requested. If you have diabetes, are pregnant, or cannot safely fast, arrange an individual plan before the appointment.
  • Wear clothing that gives easy access to the area being scanned. Bring earlier imaging reports and your order, if available.
  • Continue prescribed medicines unless your clinician gives different instructions. Tell the team about pain, limited mobility, or positioning needs.

Understanding your results

  • Gas can obscure the pancreas and other organs. Ultrasound does not provide a complete evaluation of the stomach or bowel.
  • A normal scan does not exclude every cause of abdominal pain; further testing may be needed.

What happens next?

A radiologist interprets the images. Review the report and any recommended next steps with your clinician. The sonographer may not be able to give a diagnosis during the appointment. Persistent symptoms still need follow-up even when the scan is normal.

Sources & further reading

This patient summary draws on published clinical literature and professional guidance. Patient resources are identified separately below. Preparation also depends on your specific order and the collecting laboratory or imaging team.

Content updated October 11, 2026. General education; individual advice comes from your care team.

Transparent pricing

Know the cost before your visit

Palmetto Preventive is a direct-pay service. You will see clear payment terms before your booking is finalized — no surprise imaging-center bill.

Self-pay price

$280.00/ exam

One transparent price for this exam. Payment terms are presented before your booking is finalized.

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Our pricing promise

Transparent self-pay pricing — you see the price before you book.

No surprise bills after your visit.

If your service is not approved, your payment is refunded in full.

A note on what we are. Palmetto Preventive provides non-emergency outpatient diagnostic imaging and laboratory services. We are not an emergency department, urgent care center, hospital, or a substitute for emergency evaluation, and we are not a longitudinal primary-care practice. If you are experiencing severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical care or call 911.

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