Ultrasound examinations of the kidneys: An overview of the procedure and additional information
A kidney ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic tool commonly used to evaluate various issues related to the kidneys and urinary tract. This procedure, which typically takes around 30 minutes, is often the first step in diagnosing a broad range of kidney and urinary tract concerns.
The process begins with the patient laying still while a healthcare professional applies a transducer, a handheld probe attached to a computer-sized device, to their abdomen. A small amount of gel is used to help the sound waves travel better.
The ultrasound can help detect injury or damage, kidney stones, tumors, cysts, irregularities in size and shape, blood flow issues, and bladder issues. If the healthcare professional suspects a problem with the bladder, they may ask the person to empty their bladder and rescan the area after emptying.
Common reasons for a kidney ultrasound include investigating symptoms such as persistent lower back or abdominal pain, blood in urine, frequent urinary tract infections, or abnormal urinalysis/blood tests related to kidney function. It is also used to detect or monitor kidney stones, cysts, masses, or tumors, identify structural abnormalities, evaluate complications from infections or trauma, and screen for suspected renovascular hypertension, especially in children.
After an abnormal kidney ultrasound, follow-up tests or procedures may be recommended. These could include CT scans, MRI scans, contrast-enhanced ultrasounds, voiding cystourethrography, further urological evaluation, Doppler ultrasound, renal arteriography, urine culture, blood tests, or biopsy.
Notably, renal ultrasound is often the first-line, non-invasive imaging due to its safety and absence of radiation. However, it has limitations in resolution and cannot fully evaluate the ureters or some complex abnormalities. When ultrasound detects abnormalities or is inconclusive, doctors typically order complementary imaging or diagnostic procedures tailored to the suspected condition.
In pediatric cases, guidelines suggest kidney and bladder ultrasound after the first febrile UTI, with voiding cystourethrography reserved for ultrasound abnormalities. Doppler ultrasound helps assess suspected renovascular hypertension in children 8 years or older.
Following the procedure, a radiologist examines the ultrasound images or videos and sends a signed report to the ordering doctor. Kidney ultrasounds can also be used to monitor the status of a kidney transplant.
Wait times for results can vary, but a doctor may receive the results within 1-2 days. In some cases, a CT scan may be needed to determine if a mass on the kidney is benign or cancerous. Ultrasounds can also help identify rejection of the transplanted organ and problems with the bladder post-transplant.
In summary, kidney ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool in the medical field, providing crucial information about the kidneys and urinary tract. If an abnormality is detected, further tests or procedures may be necessary for a precise diagnosis and management.
- Kidney ultrasounds can help detect various medical conditions such as kidney stones, tumors, cysts, and chronic kidney disease, which may indicate the need for specific therapies and treatments for urinary health.
- In cases of persistent lower back or abdominal pain, blood in urine, frequent urinary tract infections, or abnormal urinalysis/blood tests related to kidney function, a kidney ultrasound may be crucial for identifying the root cause.
- The screening of children for potential chronic kidney diseases and renal issues is often initiated with a kidney ultrasound, particularly after the first febrile UTI in pediatric cases.
- In the realm of health and wellness, kidney ultrasounds play a significant role in monitoring the progress of chronic diseases and conditions, such as kidney stones and kidney transplants.
- Science and technology have made it possible for medical professionals to use advanced techniques, like CT scans and MRI scans, in conjunction with kidney ultrasounds to ensure accurate diagnoses, especially when initial screening results are inconclusive or abnormal.
