Private Foreign Body Localisation Ultrasound in London

What a foreign body localisation ultrasound looks at

This scan finds and pinpoints a foreign body under the skin, such as a splinter, glass or metal. It is a safe, painless scan that uses sound waves — no radiation — and is interpreted by an experienced clinician who provides a clear written report.

This scan finds and pinpoints a foreign body under the skin — such as a splinter, glass or metal — before it is removed. It is especially valuable for non-metallic objects like wood and glass that often don't show on an X-ray. It is used for a suspected splinter or foreign body, pain from an unseen fragment, before removal, or a wound that will not heal.

• Splinters and wood
• Glass fragments
• Metal foreign bodies
• Precise location before removal

Conditions this foreign body localisation ultrasound can show

A foreign body localisation ultrasound at Tower Bridge Hospital is commonly used to look for and assess:

• Splinters and wood fragments
• Glass fragments
• Metal foreign bodies
• Precise location and depth before removal
• Associated infection or reaction around the object

Your scan is interpreted by an experienced clinician who explains the findings in a clear written report, with advice on any next steps. A normal scan is often just as valuable — giving you firm reassurance.

Reasons you might need this scan

People commonly have a foreign body localisation ultrasound for reasons such as:

• A suspected splinter or foreign body
• Pain from an unseen fragment
• Before removal of a foreign body
• A wound that will not heal

How to prepare and what to expect

No preparation is needed. Please tell us roughly when and how the object went in, and point to where you feel it. Wear clothing that allows easy access to the area. Your scan takes around 15–30 minutes. During the scan a small amount of warm gel is applied and the probe is moved gently over the area. It is painless and there is no radiation. You will receive a doctor-led written report, usually the same day or shortly afterwards, with clear advice on any next steps. We are open 7 days a week, 9am–7pm, with same-day and walk-in appointments in Whitechapel, East London.