Renal Ultrasound
A renal ultrasound is a test that uses ultrasound waves to obtain images of the kidneys, bladder, and ureters. It can be used to diagnose pathologies or to assist specialists during surgical procedures.
General Description
During a renal ultrasound, high-frequency sound waves are used to capture images of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. This test involves the application of ultrasound over the skin with a manual probe (transducer) that picks up the echo produced when the waves impact tissues. A computer then transforms this reverberation into images that are displayed in real-time on a screen.
Conventional renal ultrasounds provide two-dimensional, moving images in grayscale. When Doppler technology is used, blood flow in the urinary organs can also be observed.
When is it indicated?
This diagnostic method helps detect tumors, cysts, stones, or abscesses in patients with associated symptoms (pain, hematuria, reduced urination, nonspecific fever), as well as dilation or infection of the urinary tract. A renal ultrasound is also useful for detecting malformations or abnormalities, such as double kidneys.
This procedure can also be used for planning and guiding surgeons in certain surgical interventions.
How is it performed?
For a renal ultrasound, the patient lies on their back or side, depending on the specific organs to be examined. Initially, a water-based gel is applied to enhance image quality, and the probe is placed on the gel and slowly moved over the area.
Risks
A renal ultrasound poses no health risks.
What to expect from a renal ultrasound
It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing to the appointment, as the area being examined—specifically the abdomen and lower back—must be exposed. The medical center may provide a gown for the procedure.
The patient must lie on their back for the examination of the bladder, ureters, and urethra, though it may be necessary to change position and lie on their side to facilitate the visualization of the kidneys.
The gel applied at the start will feel cold, but the sensation is brief. When the specialist applies pressure to certain areas to improve the image, a slight discomfort may be felt, especially when the bladder is full. Nonetheless, the renal ultrasound is not painful.
This is an outpatient procedure, so no hospitalization or post-procedure rest is required. Once the test is finished, typically after about 10 minutes, the gel can be easily wiped off with disposable paper without leaving residue or stains. While the doctor can see the state of the urinary system during the exam, the patient will receive the report and recommendations during a consultation after a few days.
Specialties that request a renal ultrasound
This type of ultrasound is requested by specialists in nephrology, oncology, and internal medicine.
How to prepare
About an hour before the renal ultrasound, it is necessary to drink one liter of water and hold the urine in the bladder until the procedure is complete. Fasting is not required.
