No specific Preparation
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Scan results summary before you leave
Price
£159
Offpeak
£149
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What's included in the Groin Scan
Formal written ultrasound report in 24 hours
Expert Care by HCPC & GMC Clinicians
About the Groin Scan
A groin hernia is a condition in which a portion of the intestine or other abdominal contents protrude through a weak area or tear in the muscles around the groin, specifically in the area where the abdomen meets the thigh. This can cause pain or discomfort, and in some cases, the hernia may become trapped or strangulated, which can be life-threatening. Groin hernias are typically treated with surgery.
There are several types of groin hernias, the most common of which are inguinal and femoral hernias.
Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia and occur in the inguinal canal, which is located in the groin area. They happen when a part of the intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, into the inguinal canal.
Femoral hernias occur when a part of the intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, into the femoral canal, which is located just below the inguinal canal.
In some cases, the hernia may become trapped or strangulated, which can cause serious problems and require emergency surgery. Strangulation occurs when the blood flow to the herniated tissue is cut off, which can lead to tissue death.
Groin hernias are usually treated with surgery, which is usually done on an outpatient basis and involves repairing the weak area in the abdominal wall through which the hernia is protruding. Your doctor will discuss the best treatment options for you based on your specific condition.
A groin hernia ultrasound scan is a diagnostic imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the structures inside the groin. It can be used to evaluate these structures and determine the presence of a groin hernia as well as check for fluid and lumps.
Objective of the scan
The groin scan aims to assess the soft tissues within the groin using ultrasound. The groin is a sophisticated and complex part of the human body where certain people may develop problems such as a groin hernia, groin lump or groin swelling. The groin scan uses ultrasound waves to see inside the groin to check for specific problems. It is a quick and painless test that is completely safe. The results of the groin scan are discussed with you following the scan.
The purpose of the groin ultrasound scan is to assess the groin to check for
- a groin lump
- groin swelling (fluid)
- presence of a groin hernia.
- presence of an inguinal hernia
- presence of a formal hernia
- presence of abnormal lymph nodes
The groin is a highly complex area featuring numerous muscles and neurovascular structures prone to injury and various conditions. If you’re feeling any discomfort or pain in your groin area, your doctor might request a groin ultrasound to determine the cause of the pain and discomfort.
Why choose us for your Groin Scan
What brought you here?
Pick the closest match. We'll show what the scan looks for and what usually happens next.
What the scan looks for
The inguinal and femoral canals while you stand, cough and strain, to see whether a hernia appears and what is inside it.
What happens next
We tell you what we saw before you leave and report within 24 hours for surgical review. If a hernia looks trapped and painful we advise urgent care that day.
What the scan looks for
Lymph nodes and their size, shape and blood flow on Doppler, and whether the lump is instead a fatty lump, cyst or hernia.
What happens next
We describe the lump's nature and size in a written report within 24 hours so your GP can decide between monitoring, blood tests or referral.
What the scan looks for
The adductor tendon origins at the pubic bone and the adductor muscle fibres, for tearing, thickening or fluid at the attachment.
What happens next
You get a verbal summary at the end of the appointment, then a written report within 24 hours for physiotherapy or sports medicine review.
What the scan looks for
The inguinal canal and its back wall as you strain, looking for bulging, small hernias and fluid in the region.
What happens next
Findings are explained at the time and reported in writing within 24 hours, so your GP or a hernia surgeon can plan the next step.
What the scan looks for
Fluid collections, blood, abscess and tissue swelling at the repair site, and whether a hernia has returned.
What happens next
We discuss the findings with you and report to your GP or surgical team within 24 hours. If a collection looks infected we advise you to seek urgent care.
Please note: Groin ultrasound can't show the hip labrum or stress injury of the pubic bone, so groin pain coming from the hip joint or bone needs an MRI.
Why do I need a Groin Scan?
A groin hernia occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weakness in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall. In many cases, hernias cause no symptoms or very few symptoms. You may notice a swelling or lump in your tummy (abdomen) or groin that can often be pushed back in or will disappear when you lie down. Coughing or straining may make the lump reappear.
Symptoms of a groin hernia can include:
- A noticeable bulge or lump in the groin area may be more pronounced when standing or straining and may disappear when lying down.
- Pain or discomfort in the groin, especially when coughing, bending, or lifting.
- A feeling of heaviness or fullness in the groin.
- Weakness or pressure in the groin.
- Occasionally hernias may not cause any symptoms at all and are only discovered during a routine medical examination or imaging test.
It’s important to note that not all lumps or bulges in the groin area are hernias. Other conditions such as lymph node swelling or lipoma can cause similar symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
In some cases, the hernia may become trapped or strangulated, which can cause more severe symptoms such as:
- severe pain,
- nausea and vomiting
- redness and swelling of the hernia
- fever
- inability to reduce (push back) the hernia.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention as it can be a sign of a serious complication.
A groin hernia may be suspected through a physical examination. Your doctor may have examined the area of the groin and may have asked you to perform certain movements, such as coughing to help identify the hernia. A physical examination alone however is usually not enough to confirm the diagnosis. A groin scan is by far superior to a physical examination as it directly visualises the groin anatomy leading to an increase in the detection of a groin hernia, particularly when performed by an experienced clinician.
In some instances, further imaging tests may be needed following a groin ultrasound scan to establish a diagnosis.
Why do I need a Groin Scan?
A groin hernia occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weakness in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall. In many cases, hernias cause no symptoms or very few symptoms. You may notice a swelling or lump in your tummy (abdomen) or groin that can often be pushed back in or will disappear when you lie down. Coughing or straining may make the lump reappear.
Symptoms of a groin hernia can include:
- A noticeable bulge or lump in the groin area may be more pronounced when standing or straining and may disappear when lying down.
- Pain or discomfort in the groin, especially when coughing, bending, or lifting.
- A feeling of heaviness or fullness in the groin.
- Weakness or pressure in the groin.
- Occasionally hernias may not cause any symptoms at all and are only discovered during a routine medical examination or imaging test.
It’s important to note that not all lumps or bulges in the groin area are hernias. Other conditions such as lymph node swelling or lipoma can cause similar symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
In some cases, the hernia may become trapped or strangulated, which can cause more severe symptoms such as:
- severe pain,
- nausea and vomiting
- redness and swelling of the hernia
- fever
- inability to reduce (push back) the hernia.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention as it can be a sign of a serious complication.
A groin hernia may be suspected through a physical examination. Your doctor may have examined the area of the groin and may have asked you to perform certain movements, such as coughing to help identify the hernia. A physical examination alone however is usually not enough to confirm the diagnosis. A groin scan is by far superior to a physical examination as it directly visualises the groin anatomy leading to an increase in the detection of a groin hernia, particularly when performed by an experienced clinician.
In some instances, further imaging tests may be needed following a groin ultrasound scan to establish a diagnosis.
What we check
The areas examined in one appointment. Open any section for detail.
Groin (Inguinal region)What can the Groin Scan detect?
Our groin scan is used to assess for common problems in the groin which can include:
- Groin hernia (inguinal or femoral hernia)
- Groin lumps or swelling
- Inflammation
- Some tumours and cancers
- Soft tissue masses such as lipomas, lymph nodes
- Fluid (effusion)
- Haematomas
- Classification of a mass e.g. solid, cystic, mixed
- Post-surgical complications e.g. abscess, oedema
It is important to remember that not all lumps or bulges in the groin area are hernias. Other conditions such as lymph node swelling or lipoma can cause similar symptoms. Your scan can evaluate and if needed we can recommend further tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Benefits of the Groin Scan
The test is painless, safe, and can be done quickly. Your doctor may require a groin ultrasound scan to plan the best treatment. It is often used in conjunction with other tests such as blood tests, clinical evaluation or a hip scan with our specialist physiotherapist. Ultrasonography is a noninvasive imaging modality and is widely used for the assessment of the groin. It can provide clinically useful information on a wide range of conditions affecting the groin and surrounding soft tissues. The Scan Clinic has expert clinical staff to assess the groin for the presence of a groin hernia.
A Private groin ultrasound offers various benefits to patients, including;
- It is non-invasive – Ultrasounds are a non-invasive diagnostic procedure without exposure to radiation or contrasting agents. There are no known risks of ultrasounds, allowing doctors and patients to be more confident using this method to detect and diagnose various conditions.
- Real-time imaging – The ultrasound provides real-time images, allowing immediate assessment and visualisation of the structures in the groin area.
- Accuracy – Private groin ultrasounds are extremely accurate and help differentiate different conditions affecting the groin area. They aid in appropriate treatment planning through accurate diagnosis.
- Safety – Groin ultrasounds are generally considered safe for all age groups, including pregnant women, infants and children.
How to prepare
Arriving with the right preparation is important as failure to do so may result in us not being able to perform the scan.
No preparation needed
- No specific preparation is required for this scan.
On the day
During the scan, you will be asked to uncover the area being scanned, hence we advise to wear suitable loose clothing and a small amount of ultrasound gel will be placed over your skin.
An ultrasound camera (‘probe’) will then be placed on top and moved along and around the area. This results in a picture appearing on the ultrasound monitor and patient TV which will be translated by the clinical specialist/ medical practitioner.
The ultrasound scan itself usually lasts around 10-15 minutes and is pain-free. At the end of the scan, a verbal summary of the results will be provided, as well as your opportunity to ask any questions.
Right after
Your clinician talks you through a verbal summary and answers your questions.
Within 24 hours
A formal written report arrives by email, ready to share with your GP.
If anything needs follow-up
We explain what was seen, the options and who to speak to next.
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Common Questions
What is a Groin Ultrasound?
A groin ultrasound assesses the area between the upper thigh and abdomen.
Your doctor might request a groin ultrasound if they detect a lump or if you present with trauma or pain for inguinal or femoral hernias.
Generally, there is minimal preparation required for a groin ultrasound. However, the ultrasound specialist might ask you to wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the groin area.
At the beginning of the ultrasound, you will be asked to lie down on an examination table, exposing the groin region for the ultrasound scan. The practitioner will apply a clear gel to the skin over the groin area. The gel assists in the transmission of sound waves between the skin and the transducer.
During a groin scan, the transducer is placed over the inguinal region. Live images from the groin area are captured by moving the transducer in different orientations and applying varying amounts of pressure as needed. You might be asked to change positions or perform certain manoeuvres to visualise certain areas better.
Why You Need a Groin Ultrasound?
You might need a groin ultrasound for several reasons;
- Hernias: Ultrasounds are vital in the diagnosis of hernias. A groin ultrasound can confirm various types of hernias, such as femoral, inguinal and incisional hernias around the groin area.
- Lymph nodes: The groin ultrasound can also help assess the size, shape, and characteristics of lymph nodes, which can help diagnose infections, inflammation, or malignancies.
- Soft Tissues: Swelling or inflammation of the soft tissues in the groin due to excess fluid.
- Lumps: Ultrasound can be used to assess for cysts or other lumps in the groin.
Other scans can also check for:
- Certain vascular conditions: An ultrasound can evaluate blood vessels in the thigh area. This can be done as part of the diagnostic procedures for conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
- Musculoskeletal disorders: An ultrasound can assist in assessment of muscle tears or injuries in the groin region as part of a musculoskeletal assessment.
- Testicular abnormalities: This ultrasound can provide information about various testicular abnormalities, such as masses or torsions in cases of scrotal pain or swelling.
How much is a private groin ultrasound in London?
Our private groin ultrasounds begin at £149. But the price may vary depending on the time you set your appointment. You can contact our office for accurate pricing and to book your appointment.
How long will it take to get the groin ultrasound results?
You should leave with verbal results of the findings of the ultrasound. However, it takes an extra day or two for us to send you the official electronic results to your email.
Do I need a blood test with a groin ultrasound?
In some cases, getting a blood test with your ultrasound can be helpful for your doctors. While in others, a blood test is not necessary. If you’re uncertain, you can call our clinic to find out more.
Do I need a doctor's request for a groin ultrasound?
We recommend visiting a doctor or physiotherapist with your complaint before undergoing a groin ultrasound. However, a doctor’s request is not mandatory for most groin ultrasound scans.
Book your Groin Scan
Same-day and weekend appointments at The Scan Clinic London East in Gants Hill, with a verbal summary before you leave.
Standard price£159
Off-peak price£149
Off-peak discount is applied automatically at checkout. Verbal summary and written report included.
How to find us
Address
The Scan Clinic London East
635A Cranbrook Road
Gants Hill IG2 6SX
Free parking spaces directly in front of the clinic, plus a paid public car park opposite.
Important notes
- We will require details of your GP / Health Care Professional, which may be requested before or at the time of the scan.
- This scan requires access to the area of interest; therefore, it is recommended to wear loose clothing to facilitate this process.
- Study images are not typically included with the scan but may be requested, further information can be found by clicking here.
- Our London East clinic is located on the first floor, up one flight of stairs. Please note that we don’t have a lift available at this location.
- All of our first-line tests are optional and provided on a self-referral basis. You must be aged 18 years or over to use this service. If you have an existing medical condition, are undergoing treatment, or have any concerns about whether this test is appropriate for you, we recommend that you consult your GP or healthcare professional before booking.
- We kindly ask that you inform us of any specific requirements, reasonable adjustments, cultural considerations, or practitioner preferences before your appointment. Whilst we will make every reasonable effort to accommodate requests, this may not always be possible at short notice or subject to staff availability.
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More about the Groin Scan
Learn more about this scan, the areas it covers and ultrasound in general in our Health Hub.
Go to Health Hub
Medically reviewed by
Mr. Mohammad Usman
Clinical Lead and Consultant Sonographer