A urinary tract ultrasound examines the kidneys and bladder and may include a post-void measurement. It can support assessment of urinary symptoms, recurrent infections, suspected obstruction or flank discomfort.
Ultrasound uses sound waves rather than ionising radiation to create real-time images. Your examination is selected around your symptoms, clinical history and the body area that needs assessment.
At Victoria Medical, the scan is performed through an appropriate clinical pathway. The sonographer will explain the practical steps, and you will receive clear information about reporting and any recommended follow-up.
Written & reviewed by
Victoria Medical Clinical Team
Specialist sonography and consultant-led clinical pathways
What a Urinary Tract Ultrasound Can Assess
The scan is selected to complement a history, examination and urine or blood tests where needed. It cannot replace urgent review for a suspected severe infection, acute retention or significant bleeding.
| Area assessed | Why it may be examined |
|---|---|
| Kidneys | Size, collecting system and visible structural changes |
| Bladder | Bladder appearance and volume |
| Post-void residual | Bladder emptying after you pass urine, if requested |
Preparation Before Your Appointment
Drink approximately one litre of water in the hour before your appointment and avoid emptying your bladder. You may be asked to pass urine part way through the visit if a post-void measurement is needed.
Preparation summary: Arrive with a full bladder — Drink water beforehand and do not empty your bladder.
What Happens During the Scan
The sonographer scans the lower abdomen and may also assess the kidneys from the side or back. The external scan is usually comfortable and takes around 20–30 minutes.
- Bring any relevant referral letter, previous scan report or test result if you have one.
- Wear clothing that allows straightforward access to the area being examined.
- Tell the clinical team if you are unsure whether this is the right scan for your symptoms.
Results and Next Steps
The examination forms one part of your clinical assessment. Your report and the appropriate next step will depend on the scan findings, your symptoms and relevant history. We can help arrange GP, specialist or urgent-care follow-up where this is clinically appropriate.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Seek urgent medical help for inability to pass urine, fever with flank pain, severe pain, visible blood in urine with clots or a rapidly worsening condition.
Ultrasound is not a substitute for emergency assessment. If symptoms are severe, sudden, worsening or accompanied by fainting, breathing difficulty, fever, heavy bleeding or acute testicular pain, seek urgent medical help.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Check your preparation
Drink water beforehand and do not empty your bladder.
Attend your appointment
Our clinic is at 170 Vauxhall Bridge Road, two minutes from Victoria Station.
Have your scan
The sonographer explains the examination and captures real-time images of the relevant area.
Understand next steps
You receive information about reporting and any clinically appropriate follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
References
- [1]National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Diagnostic assessment and referral guidance relevant to ultrasound pathways.
- [2]Royal College of Radiologists. Standards for imaging services and patient communication.
- [3]British Medical Ultrasound Society. Professional guidance for safe, effective diagnostic ultrasound practice.
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