Abdominal Ultrasound

Quick Intro

VEI Clinic Apgujeong provides English-friendly abdominal evaluations and quickly arranges abdominal ultrasound near Apgujeong Station (Line 3), Exit 5. We perform the clinical exam and labs, arrange a same-day or next-day scan at a nearby imaging center when available, and review results in English with a clear plan.

When Abdominal Ultrasound Is Recommended

• Right-upper-quadrant pain (gallbladder, bile ducts), post-meal discomfort
• Upper abdominal pain/indigestion (rule out gallstones, fatty liver)
• Abnormal liver tests (elevated AST/ALT, GGT) or fatty-liver follow-up
• Suspected kidney/urinary issues (hydronephrosis, stones—initial screen)
• Lower abdominal pain where ultrasound helps triage (appendix, bowel, pelvis)*
• Known liver/kidney cysts or lesions requiring interval monitoring. *For suspected appendicitis or acute surgical abdomen, urgent imaging or ER referral will be arranged.

What an Abdominal Ultrasound Shows

• Liver: size, texture (steatosis), focal lesions, bile ducts
• Gallbladder: stones, sludge, wall thickening, Murphy sign
• Pancreas (when visible)
• Kidneys/ureters: stones, hydronephrosis, cysts
• Spleen and aorta (aneurysm screening as indicated)
• Bladder: volume, wall, residual urine

On-Site Services & Coordination

• Doctor consult (English) + focused abdominal exam
• Labs as needed: CBC, CMP/LFTs, amylase/lipase, CRP, urinalysis
• Ultrasound scheduling at a nearby imaging partner
• Result review in English + written summary
• Next steps: medication plan, diet guidance, follow-up timing; CT/MRI or GI/surgical referral if indicated

Visit Flow

• Check-in & history → pain map, triggers, travel/diet, meds
• Exam & labs → targeted blood/urine tests
• Ultrasound → same/next day at a partner center (we arrange)
• Review → plain-English explanation, differential, and action plan

How to Prepare for an Abdominal Ultrasound

• Fast 6–8 hours (water allowed) for better gallbladder/biliary views
• Avoid carbonated drinks beforehand to reduce bowel gas
• Bring prior lab/imaging reports if you have them
• Wear a comfortable top that allows easy access to the upper abdomen

Results & Follow-Up

• Imaging reports are typically ready the same day or within 24–72 hours (center-dependent)
• You’ll receive an English summary with findings, the likely cause of your symptoms, and a stepwise plan (medications, diet, repeat imaging intervals, or specialist referral)

Red Flags — Go to an ER or Call 119

• Severe, escalating abdominal pain with a rigid abdomen
• Persistent vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, signs of severe dehydration
• Black/tarry stools, bright red blood, or vomiting blood
• High fever with confusion, yellowing of skin/eyes, severe chest pain/shortness of breath

Pricing & Insurance Notes

• Fees vary by consult, labs, and the ultrasound center’s pricing
• Most visitors pay upfront and submit itemized English receipts to insurers
• Ask for a written quote before labs and imaging

What to Bring

• Passport/ID and a Korean phone number (if any)
• Medication & allergy list, prior labs or imaging (photos okay)
• Payment method (card/cash); insurer details if you plan to file a claim