Renal Ultrasound

What is a Renal Ultrasound?

A renal ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the kidneys, bladder, and surrounding tissues. It is commonly used to investigate:

• Kidney pain
• Urinary symptoms
• Suspected infections or kidney stones

This scan is safe, painless, and does not use radiation.

Preparation for the Scan

• You will need to arrive with a full bladder.
• Please drink 1 litre of water 1 hour before your appointment.
• Take any regular medications as usual unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Children

• Children are not allowed in the scan room.
• If needed, please bring someone who can supervise them in the waiting area.

Arrival

• Please arrive 10 minutes early and check in at the reception desk.
• If you are more than 10 minutes late, you may need to rebook your appointment.

Procedure

• You will be asked to lie on a couch.
• A small amount of ultrasound gel will be applied to your abdomen.
• A sonographer will gently move a handheld device (transducer) over your skin.
• You may be asked to empty your bladder during the scan to capture additional images.

Duration

• The scan usually takes 10 – 15 minutes.

Post-Procedure

• You can return to normal activities straight away.

Results

• The sonographer will review the images and send the report to your referring doctor.
• Please do not ask the sonographer for your results.
• Your results will be provided by your GP. We recommend contacting your GP after 7 days to discuss them.

Ultrasound is a very safe procedure:

• It does not use ionising radiation
• There are no known side effects