Kidney and bladder Ultrasound
What is a renal ultrasound?
Also known as a renal ultrasound, a kidney and bladder ultrasound is used to assess the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. Renal Ultrasounds are useful in detecting cysts, tumors, abscesses, infection, and collections of fluid around the kidneys.
Frequently asked questions:
You may have been referred for a renal ultrasound for a variety of reasons including swelling, pain, bleeding, or if abnormal tests are reported in your kidneys or the surrounding area.
Drink a minimum of 24 ounces of clear fluid at least one hour before your appointment. Do not empty your bladder prior to the procedure. Generally, no prior preparation, such as fasting or sedation, is required
Your procedure will be performed with you lying on the examination table on your back.The sonographer may ask you to turn on your side to get a better view of your kidneys. The sonographer will apply gel to your abdomen. A transducer, a small, microphone-like device, will be placed over various locations on your abdomen. The sonographer may ask you to hold your breath intermittently during the exam. If needed, the sonographer may ask you to use the restroom to empty your bladder and additional images will be taken afterwards.
You will not feel any pain; however you will feel mild pressure from the transducer.
Your exam will take approximately 20 minutes.
When a renal ultrasound is performed, there are little to no risks. However, patients may experience discomfort from the pressure placed on their pelvic region from the transducer. This pressure is to allow for the sonographer to capture the best images of your internal organs.
