What Is a Renal Ultrasound?
A renal ultrasound is a painless, non-invasive test that uses sound waves to create pictures of your kidneys and bladder. Unlike CT scans or X-rays, it does not use radiation, making it a safe choice for people of all ages. The ultrasound helps detect kidney stones, cysts, tumors, blockages, or structural issues that may affect how your kidneys function.
During the test, a small handheld device called a transducer is moved over your abdomen and sides after a warm gel is applied. The sound waves bounce off your organs, creating real-time images that your doctor can use to evaluate kidney health and blood flow.
Benefits With Our Service
At our facilities, renal ultrasound plays a key role in early detection and ongoing management of kidney and urinary tract conditions. We often recommend it for patients experiencing symptoms such as flank pain, blood in the urine, recurrent urinary tract infections, or unexplained changes in kidney function.
Our highly skilled team provides clear, accurate imaging, with quick turnaround on results. If abnormalities are found, your doctor can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs—whether that means medication, further testing, or referral to a specialist. With our care, you gain answers and peace of mind.
Health Tips & Info
Preparation: You may be asked to drink water before the exam so your bladder is full, which improves image quality. Avoid eating heavy meals just before the test if your doctor requests it.
During the Test: You’ll lie on your back or side while the probe is gently moved across your skin. The test is completely painless and usually takes 20–30 minutes.
After the Test: You can return to normal activities right away. A physician will review your images and discuss any findings with you.
Follow-Up: Depending on results, your doctor may recommend additional blood tests, imaging, or treatment.
Renal ultrasound provides a safe, effective way to check kidney health, detect problems early, and guide your care—without the risks of radiation.
Renal Ultrasound Quick Info
A renal ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive test that uses sound waves to create images of your kidneys and bladder. It helps your doctor detect kidney stones, cysts, tumors, blockages, or other problems affecting kidney function. The test is painless, requires no radiation, and provides real-time images.
Renal ultrasound is often the first test doctors order for kidney concerns because it’s quick, painless, and does not involve radiation. It can detect kidney stones, monitor chronic kidney disease, and even assess blood flow to the kidneys.
Your doctor may recommend a renal ultrasound if you have symptoms such as flank pain, blood in the urine, frequent urinary tract infections, or unexplained changes in kidney function. The test helps detect kidney stones, cysts, tumors, or blockages that could affect your health.
No. A renal ultrasound is completely safe and painless. It uses sound waves—not radiation—and has no known side effects. You may feel slight pressure from the probe on your abdomen or side, but most people find the test very comfortable.
The ultrasound provides real-time images of your kidneys and bladder. This allows your doctor to evaluate kidney size, shape, blood flow, and check for any stones or blockages. With this information, your doctor can diagnose problems early and recommend the best treatment or follow-up care.