Ultrasound HBS. $150.42. Female Sonographer Available (2025)

Ultrasound Hepatobiliary System (HBS)

Dr. Leonard Leng of ATA Medical Singapore.
Authored By: Dr. Leonard Leng.
Last updated: Mar 27, 2025.

What Is an Ultrasound Hepatobiliary System (HBS)?

An ultrasound hepatobiliary system (HBS) is a non-invasive imaging test that assesses the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. It uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time, detailed images of these organs, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions such as gallstones, liver disease, and bile duct obstructions.

What Is the Hepatobiliary System?

The hepatobiliary system consists of interconnected organs responsible for producing, storing, and transporting bile, a fluid essential for digestion. It includes the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts, which work together to regulate fat metabolism and remove waste from the body.

  • Liver – The largest internal organ, responsible for detoxification, metabolism, and bile production.
  • Gallbladder – A small, pear-shaped organ that stores and releases bile to aid in digestion.
  • Bile ducts – A network of tubes that transport bile from the liver to the small intestine, facilitating the breakdown of fats.

Because these organs play a vital role in digestion and metabolism, any abnormalities or dysfunction can significantly affect overall health.

Illustration of liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas with clear medical labels.

Why Is an Ultrasound HBS Performed?

Doctors may recommend an ultrasound HBS to evaluate organ structure and detect abnormalities early, especially when a patient presents with symptoms such as:

  • Liver Abnormalities – Fatty liver, liver cirrhosis (scarring of liver tissue), or liver masses (benign or cancerous growths).
  • Gallbladder Conditions – Gallstones (hardened bile deposits that may cause pain or blockage), polyps (benign tissue growths), or cholecystitis (inflammation).
  • Bile Duct Issues – Blockages, narrowing (stricture), or widening (dilation) of the bile ducts.
  • Pancreatic Conditions – Pancreatitis (inflammation causing severe pain and digestive problems) or tumours affecting the pancreas.
  • Unexplained Symptoms – Persistent upper abdominal pain, jaundice, or abnormal liver function tests.

Hepatobiliary Ultrasound Preparation

Proper preparation ensures clearer imaging of the gallbladder and reduces interference from bowel gas. This typically includes:

  • Informing your doctor about any existing medical conditions or medications during your consultation before scheduling the scan.
  • Fasting for at least six hours before the procedure, except for small sips of water if necessary.
  • Wearing comfortable clothing to facilitate the scan.

In some cases, preparation instructions may vary based on individual health conditions. It is essential to follow your doctor’s guidance to ensure a smooth scan.

Hepatobiliary Ultrasound Procedure

An ultrasound HBS procedure is straightforward and typically takes 15 to 30 minutes:

  1. Positioning – The patient lies on an examination bed.
  2. Application of Gel – A water-based gel is applied to the abdomen to improve sound wave transmission.
  3. Scanning Process – A transducer (probe) is moved across the abdomen to capture images of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas.

The scan is generally painless, though mild pressure may be applied to obtain clearer images.

Medical professional performing HBS ultrasound scan with real-time imaging.

What Do the Results of an Ultrasound HBS Mean?

The findings of an ultrasound HBS can range from normal results to indications of disease. Below are common findings and their possible implications:

Potential Findings Interpretation
Normal results The liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas appear normal in size, shape, and texture, with no visible abnormalities.
Fatty liver changes Excess fat has built up in the liver, making it look brighter on ultrasound. This is often linked to metabolic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, or excessive alcohol intake.
Gallstones or polyps Small solid formations in the gallbladder. Gallstones may block bile flow and cause pain, while polyps are usually harmless but may need monitoring.
Bile duct dilation The bile ducts are wider than normal, which may mean a blockage from gallstones, scarring, or inflammation. Further tests may be needed to find the cause.
Liver masses or cysts Growths in the liver that may be harmless (cysts, haemangiomas) or cancerous (liver cancer, metastases). Fluid-filled cysts are usually not a concern, but solid masses may require more tests like CT, MRI, or a biopsy.

Ultrasound HBS Price

At ATA Medical, we offer the ultrasound hepatobiliary system scan and other related tests at the following prices:

Test Price*
Ultrasound Hepatobiliary System (HBS) $150.42
Ultrasound Liver $150.42
Ultrasound Liver Elastography $196.20
Liver Function Test A
Total Bilirubin, Alkaline Phosphatase [ALP], ALT/SGOT, AST/SGPT, Gamma GT 		$30.52
Liver Function Test B
Total Bilirubin, Alkaline Phosphatase [ALP], ALT/SGOT, AST/SGPT, Gamma GT, Total Protein, Albumin, Globulin, A/G Ratio) 		$34.88
Liver Function Test C
Total Bilirubin, Alkaline Phosphatase [ALP], ALT/SGOT, AST/SGPT, Gamma GT, Total Protein, Albumin, Globulin, A/G Ratio, LDH, Hepatitis Bs Antigen & Antibody, Hepatitis A Total IgG, Alpha Fetoprotein [AFP] 		$91.56
*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

Why Use Us?

Female Sonographer

Our Ultrasound Scans are done by a female sonographer.

Express Report
(within 24 hours)

Need an express report? We provide these at a cost of $32.70 NETT, and will be sent to you through email.

Please note we do not provide express reports on Saturdays.

One Stop Medical Centre

We are a one-stop health screening centre with Chest X-Ray, Mammogram, and Ultrasound Scan.

How to Book an Ultrasound HBS Appointment?

ATA Medical @ Orchard

Address: 1 Orchard Blvd, #05-09 Camden Medical Centre, Singapore 248649
Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard Station (TE13)
Contact Number: 6223 0682
Email: camden@atamed.sg
Opening Hours:
Mon - Fri: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Sat: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Sun & PH: Closed
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ATA Medical @ Tanjong Pagar

Address: 72 Anson Rd, #01-02 Anson House, Singapore 079911
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar Station (EW15)
Contact Number: 6223 0682
Email: hi@atamed.sg
Opening Hours:
Mon - Fri: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Sat: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Sun & PH: Closed
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ATA Medical (Anson House)

Nearest MRT: EW15 Tanjong Pagar

ATA Medical (Camden Medical Centre)

Nearest MRT: TE13 Orchard Boulevard

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

HBS in ultrasound refers to the Hepatobiliary System Ultrasound, a diagnostic imaging test that evaluates the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. It is commonly performed to detect abnormalities such as gallstones, liver disease, bile duct obstructions, and pancreatic disorders.
Preparing for an HBS ultrasound typically requires fasting for at least six hours before the scan to ensure a clear view of the gallbladder and bile ducts. Patients should inform their doctor about any existing medical conditions or medications and wear loose, comfortable clothing. Preparation instructions may vary based on individual health conditions, so it is essential to follow your doctor’s guidance.
An ultrasound can detect signs of liver damage, such as fatty liver, cirrhosis, liver enlargement, or abnormal masses, but it cannot assess liver function. Further tests, such as blood tests, CT scans, MRI, or liver biopsy, may be required for a comprehensive diagnosis. It is best to consult your doctor on the most suitable tests to assess your liver condition.
Yes, fasting for at least six hours before an HBS ultrasound is typically required to reduce bowel gas and ensure a clearer image of the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. Small sips of water are usually allowed if necessary. However, preparation instructions may vary based on individual health conditions, so it is best to follow your doctor’s guidance.
Yes, you can drink small sips of water before a liver ultrasound, but you should avoid large amounts of fluids, food, or carbonated drinks, as they may interfere with the clarity of the scan. Preparation instructions may vary depending on individual health conditions, so it is best to follow your doctor’s guidance.
A pelvic ultrasound is used to assess the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and prostate (in men). It is commonly performed to investigate symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, fibroids, cysts, or reproductive health concerns.
Ultrasound cannot directly detect hepatitis, but it can identify liver abnormalities associated with chronic hepatitis, such as fatty liver, fibrosis, cirrhosis, or liver enlargement. A definitive diagnosis of hepatitis requires blood tests, such as liver function tests and viral hepatitis screening. It is best to consult your doctor to determine the most suitable tests for assessing liver health and diagnosing hepatitis.
Common warning signs of liver damage include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and abdominal swelling (ascites). Other symptoms, such as dark urine, nausea, and easy bruising, may also indicate liver dysfunction. If you experience these symptoms, it is best to consult a doctor for further evaluation.
A US hepatobiliary system refers to an ultrasound (US) scan of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. This non-invasive test uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images, helping detect gallstones, liver disease, bile duct blockages, and pancreatic issues. It is commonly performed to assess abdominal pain, jaundice, or abnormal liver function tests.
There is no single drink that can 'flush' the liver, but staying hydrated with water, drinking herbal teas like green tea or dandelion tea, and reducing alcohol intake can help support liver function. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants also plays a key role in maintaining liver health. If you are concerned about your liver or experiencing symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal pain, it is best to consult your doctor for proper evaluation and testing.
A doctor may order a liver ultrasound to investigate unexplained symptoms such as jaundice, persistent abdominal pain, abnormal liver function tests, or suspected liver disease. This imaging test can help detect fatty liver, cirrhosis, cysts, tumours, or bile duct obstructions. As the reason for testing may vary based on individual health concerns, it is best to consult your doctor directly to understand the specific purpose of your scan.
An HBS ultrasound, or Hepatobiliary System Ultrasound, is a non-invasive imaging test that evaluates the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. It is commonly used to diagnose conditions such as gallstones, liver disease, bile duct obstructions, and pancreatic abnormalities. At ATA Medical, we offer the HBS ultrasound for $150.42 NETT, inclusive of GST.
If you are required to have a full bladder for your ultrasound but struggle to hold your urine, inform the radiographer or sonographer upon arrival. In some cases, they may allow you to partially empty your bladder and rehydrate before proceeding with the scan.
At ATA Medical, an Ultrasound Hepatobiliary System (HBS) scan costs $150.42 NETT, inclusive of GST. For information on other related tests or available payment options, please contact us directly.