Procedures

Renal ultrasound is a diagnostic study that images the kidney with specialized sound waves.

Indications

• Urinary retention
• Hydronephrosis
• Neurogenic bladder
• Vesicoureteral reflux
• History of complex urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Renal insufficiency
• Evaluation of kidney growth and size

Procedure

While the patient lies on an exam table, an ultrasound probe is placed against the abdomen along with a special gel that helps transmit sound waves. Images are made of both kidneys, but not the other organs in the abdomen. The entire procedure only takes a few minutes.