Kidney Ultrasound How is it Done? Key Things to Know Before Your Test

A kidney ultrasound is a safe and painless procedure used to detect abnormalities in the kidneys and urinary system. It’s often recommended for identifying kidney stones, cysts, or issues with kidney function. Understanding the process and preparing correctly will help ensure accurate results.

The Kidney Ultrasound Procedure

1. Preparation In most cases, there’s no need to fast or avoid water. However, follow any specific instructions given by your doctor.
2. Applying Gel A gel is applied to your abdomen and back to help the ultrasound device capture clear images of the kidneys.
3. Using the Transducer The doctor will move the transducer over your skin to generate sound waves, creating images of your kidneys.
4. Duration The procedure typically takes about 20-30 minutes.
5. After the Exam You can resume your normal activities immediately after the test without any recovery time needed.

Benefits of a Kidney Ultrasound

• Detect kidney abnormalities such as tumors or cysts
• Identify kidney stones, which may cause back or abdominal pain
• Evaluate blood flow in the kidneys, helping diagnose conditions like kidney failure or chronic kidney disease