Information about Renal Ultrasound Scans
An ultrasound scan of your kidneys and bladder is a useful investigation for looking at the structure of your urinary tract. It does not manage to visualise the ureters. The scanner sends out ultrasound signals, which are reflected by your tissues, and then interpreted by the USS machine to give a picture.
Is it painful?
No, ultrasound is quick and painless
Preparation for your ultrasound scan
The radiology company will send you details of preparation for an ultrasound scan. And please check with them about their requirements. Generally, you are required to drink one litre of water in the hour before you scan, so that you have a full bladder. If your bladder is not full enough, you may have to wait until it is before the scan can be completed.
What happens during an ultrasound scan?
You will lie on a couch, and ultrasound gel is applied to your abdomen. The bladder is usually scanned first, followed by the kidneys. Usually, a sonographer performs the scan, and a radiologist then reviews the results.
How long does it take to get the results?
The scan needs to be viewed and interpreted by a Radiologist, and this is quite an involved process. Usually, the results are back with 24 to 48 hours, but sometimes sooner.
Are there any risks of an ultrasound scan?
No, there are no know risks with an ultrasound scan
If you have any questions, please contact your chosen Radiology provider. The administration staff at East West Urology do NOT have information about your appointment times for radiology, and are not able to give medical advice or answer questions about radiological investigations. The staff are not able to give you your results – these need to be given to you either by the radiographer or by Nick Brook. Use the links below for contact details for the radiology companies in South Australia:
Radiology SA http://www.radiologysa.com.au
Benson Radiology http://bensonradiology.com.au
Dr Jones & Partners http://www.drjones.com.au
Disclaimer
This information is intended as an educational guide only, and is here to help you as an additional source of information, along with a consultation from your urologist. The information does not apply to all patients.
Not all potential complications are listed, and you must talk to your urologist about the complications specific to your situation.
