A kidney and urinary tract ultrasound uses sound waves to look at the kidneys, bladder and selected parts of the urinary system. It may be useful for a defined symptom or follow-up question, but urine tests, blood tests, CT or specialist review may be more appropriate in some situations.
I recommend this scan when it can answer a focused question about urinary symptoms, recurrent infections, blood in urine, suspected obstruction or a previously identified urinary finding. A clinician should first decide whether ultrasound is the right test for your presentation.
A normal scan cannot explain every urinary symptom. The report needs to be considered alongside urine testing, kidney function, your medical history and any ongoing symptoms.
Written & reviewed by
Victoria Medical Clinical Team
GMC-registered physicians and specialist consultants
Questions a kidney and urinary scan may help answer
Ultrasound may assess kidney size and appearance, urinary tract dilatation, bladder appearance and residual urine where clinically appropriate. It does not provide a complete answer for every urinary complaint.
| Symptom or finding | Possible route |
|---|---|
| Flank discomfort or a suspected obstruction | Clinical assessment with appropriate imaging and urine testing |
| Recurrent urinary symptoms | GP review, urine testing and targeted imaging when indicated |
| Blood in urine | Prompt GP or urology assessment because the cause needs a structured pathway |
| Known kidney or bladder finding | Follow-up imaging plan based on the report and specialist advice |
Preparation and appointment
A comfortably full bladder can help the clinician assess the bladder and nearby structures. Follow the preparation note sent for your appointment because the exact instruction may change with the scan question.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent medical advice for severe flank or abdominal pain, fever or shaking chills with urinary symptoms, an inability to pass urine, heavy visible bleeding in urine, persistent vomiting, confusion or rapid deterioration.
Do not wait for a routine scan if you cannot pass urine, have severe pain or fever with urinary symptoms, or feel acutely unwell.
Frequently Asked Questions
References
- [1]Wang D et al. Point-of-care ultrasonography for diagnosis of hydronephrosis: systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the American Society of Nephrology.
- [2]NICE. Suspected cancer: recognition and referral, haematuria recommendations.
- [3]NICE. Urinary tract infection guidance and clinical assessment pathway.