A renal ultrasound, or kidney ultrasound, is a non-invasive imaging technique. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of the kidneys, bladder, and related structures without using radiation. This diagnostic tool helps visualize the size, shape, and location of these organs, aiding in the diagnosis of various conditions.
Why a Renal Ultrasound is Performed
Healthcare providers often recommend a renal ultrasound to investigate symptoms indicating a kidney or bladder issue. It can help assess unexplained back pain or changes in urination patterns. The procedure identifies conditions such as kidney stones or urinary tract infections.
It also detects blockages, cysts, or tumors in the kidneys. For chronic kidney conditions, an ultrasound monitors kidney health over time, observing changes in organ size or structure. It also evaluates the health of a transplanted kidney.
Preparing for Your Renal Ultrasound
Preparation for a renal ultrasound is generally minimal. Patients are advised to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You may be asked to remove any jewelry or change into a gown before the procedure.
For some renal ultrasounds, especially when the bladder needs visualization, you may be instructed to drink a certain amount of water about an hour before the appointment. This helps ensure the bladder is full, providing clearer images. Do not empty your bladder until after the scan if this instruction is given.
Fasting is not required for a standard renal ultrasound. However, certain specialized studies might necessitate avoiding food or drink for several hours prior. Always follow the specific preparation guidelines provided by your healthcare provider or imaging center.
The Ultrasound Procedure
Upon arrival for your renal ultrasound, you will be asked to lie down on a padded examination table. The room is often dimly lit. The sonographer will explain the steps of the procedure.
A water-based gel will be applied to your skin over the area being examined. This gel helps the transducer glide smoothly and ensures optimal contact for sound wave transmission. The gel may feel slightly cool when applied.
The sonographer will gently press the transducer against your skin and move it across the area of interest. As it moves, it sends high-frequency sound waves into your body. These sound waves bounce off your kidneys and bladder, and the transducer captures the returning echoes. A computer processes these echoes in real-time, creating live, moving images on a screen.
During the scan, you may be asked to hold your breath for short periods or to change your position. These adjustments help the sonographer obtain different views and clearer images of the kidneys and surrounding structures. The procedure is generally painless, though you might feel some pressure from the transducer. The entire process takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
After Your Renal Ultrasound
Once the imaging is complete, the sonographer will wipe the ultrasound gel off your skin. Any remaining gel will dry quickly and does not stain clothing. You can then get dressed and resume your normal daily activities immediately, as there are no restrictions on diet or activity following a renal ultrasound.
The images captured during your ultrasound will be reviewed and interpreted by a radiologist, a doctor specializing in medical imaging. The radiologist will prepare a detailed report of their findings. This report is then sent to the healthcare provider who requested the ultrasound.
Your referring healthcare provider will contact you to discuss the ultrasound results and explain what they mean for your health. This may occur during a follow-up appointment or via a phone call. Depending on the findings, your provider may recommend further tests, such as blood work, urine tests, or additional imaging, or develop a treatment plan.