A kidney ultrasound is usually performed together with an examination of the bladder - this makes it possible to assess the condition of the entire urinary system. Ultrasound examination of the kidneys makes it possible to determine the anatomical position of the organ, measure the size of the kidneys, the thickness and density of the parenchyma and cortex, and the sharpness of their contours, accurately diagnose kidney stone disease, and detect tumors.
Indications for a kidney ultrasound:
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complaints of pain in the lower back, or in the right or left side
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changes in laboratory urine tests
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suspected development of inflammatory kidney diseases
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increased blood pressure
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swelling of the face and legs
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signs of kidney stone disease
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diagnosis of tumors
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prolonged hyperthermia (fever) of unknown origin, especially in children
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after injuries or bruises of the back and abdominal wall area
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follow-up after kidney transplantation
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monitoring the response of the urinary system to ongoing treatment
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impaired urine outflow, pain when urinating
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preparation for kidney surgery
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congenital abnormalities of the urinary system
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inflammatory diseases.
Contraindications
This examination is safe, painless and has no contraindications. Kidney ultrasound is ordered for pregnant women and children, because ultrasound is harmless, does not damage body tissues and does not cause long-term effects.
How to prepare for a kidney ultrasound?
No special preparation is needed to examine the kidneys and adrenal glands. However, for patients with increased intestinal gas (flatulence), we suggest following a special diet for 2-3 days before the kidney and bladder ultrasound: vegetables and fruits, whole grains, legumes and whole milk must be excluded from the diet. We also recommend taking sorbents and anti-gas (carminative) medications.
Preparation is required for better visualization of the bladder. The ultrasound should be performed with a full bladder. This means that about an hour before the ultrasound, the patient should drink about a liter of water and come in for the procedure feeling that the bladder is full. If this is neglected, it is very likely that the bladder will be indistinguishable from the bowel, and a good-quality examination will not be possible.
The examination takes 15-20 minutes. The ultrasound doctor's report is given immediately after the examination is completed.
