Renal ultrasound or ultrasound of the kidney is a specific diagnostic procedure to study the anatomy, physiology and pathology if any of the kidneys. Kidneys are bean shaped organs which are located in the upper abdominal region below the ribs. Kidneys function to remove the toxins from the body and maintain the electrolytic balance. Certain pathological conditions affecting the kidney may require screening, hence renal ultrasound is a safe and feasible method for evaluating the status of the kidneys.
When is a renal ultrasound advised ?
A renal ultrasound is advised to study the normal anatomy and physiology of the kidney. It is also advised to identify and diagnose renal conditions like renal stones and any abnormal growth in the kidney. Occasionally an ultrasound guided biopsy is also performed to obtain a tissue sample. Ultrasound of the kidneys is also performed after a kidney transplant procedure to check the functioning of the kidneys. A renal ultrasound is a rather safe procedure than an diagnostic tests which use ionizing radiation and can be safely performed in pregnant women.
When is a renal ultrasound not advised ?
A renal ultrasound is not advised if you had a barium swallow test one or two days before the procedure. It is also not advised in individuals who are obese or has intestinal obstruction because of gas, as they may interfere with the procedural results.
How do you prepare for a renal ultrasound ?
Renal ultrasound or upper abdominal ultrasound is performed as an outpatient procedure. the procedure is performed by a radiologist or a urologist who is trained to perform such procedures. The doctor will ask you to drink 4-5 glasses of water at least one hour before the procedure and will ask you not to empty your bladder. This helps in better imaging of the kidney. The doctor will also ask you to remove your jewelry and wear a hospital gown before the procedure.
What happens during a renal ultrasound ?
You will be made to lie on your back and the upper abdomen will be exposed to perform the scan. The ultrasound machine consists of a transducer (probe) which sends and receives high frequency sounds waves and a monitor (computer attachment) where these sound waves are converted into images. The radiologist/doctor will apply a gel on to your abdomen for the smooth gliding of the transducer on your abdomen. The procedure is usually completed between 20-30 minutes.
Who reports a renal ultrasound ?
A renal ultrasound is reported by a radiologist or your specialist in a formal report explaining the normal and abnormal findings.
What are the risks associated with a renal ultrasound ?
Renal ultrasound is a rather safe procedure and there are no risks associated with it. Though your doctor might advise some additional tests to confirm the diagnosis of your condition.
What is doppler ultrasound ?
It is a modified and advanced technique of ultrasound imaging which assesses the blood flow with the help of sound waves.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
