The Advantages of Ultrasound for Your Kidney

A kidney ultrasound is a noninvasive procedure used to assess the size, shape, and location of the kidneys.

Ultrasound technology allows quick visualization of the kidneys and related structures from outside the body. The kidney ultrasound is useful for screening for kidney stones, cysts, and masses. It is also help for assessing for complications of kidney stones. The kidney ultrasound is simple and painless procedure that can be performed in less than an hour. Because it does not use ionizing radiation (x-rays), it is perfectly safe.

Indications for a kidney ultrasound include prenatally detected abnormalities (such as hydronephrosis), urinary tract infection, blood in the urine, high blood pressure, back or abdominal pain, known or suspected kidney stones, or a family history of kidney disease. There are also some syndromes and conditions associated with kidney abnormalities for which ultrasound is performed.

A kidney ultrasound may be performed to assist in placement of needles used to biopsy (obtain a tissue sample) the kidneys, to drain fluid from a cyst or abscess, or to place a drainage tube. This procedure may also be used to determine blood flow to the kidneys through the renal arteries and veins.

By using an additional mode of ultrasound technology during an ultrasound procedure, blood flow to the kidney can be assessed. An ultrasound transducer capable of assessing blood flow contains a Doppler probe. The Doppler probe within the transducer evaluates the velocity and direction of blood flow in the vessel by making the sound waves audible. The degree of loudness of the audible sound waves indicates the rate of blood flow within a blood vessel. Absence or faintness of these sounds may indicate an obstruction of blood flow.

While the kidney ultrasound procedure itself causes no pain, having to lie still for the length of the procedure may cause slight discomfort. The technologist will use all possible comfort measures and complete the procedure as quickly as possible to minimize any discomfort.

There is no special type of care required after a kidney ultrasound. You may resume your usual diet and activities unless your physician advises you differently.