What are Kidney & Bladder Issues
Ultrasound is an essential imaging tool for assessing the kidneys and bladder, providing clear, radiation-free evaluation of the urinary tract. It is particularly effective at identifying renal stones, which appear as bright echogenic foci with a distinctive acoustic shadow. When a stone blocks urine flow, ultrasound can detect hydronephrosis, a dilation of the kidney’s collecting system, which often requires prompt treatment.
Ultrasound can also detect renal cysts, solid renal masses, and structural variations such as duplex kidneys, which may influence long-term kidney function or recurrent infections. The scan measures kidney size, helping identify chronic kidney disease or developmental abnormalities.
The bladder can be assessed for stones, masses, wall thickening, or signs of inflammation. Post-void scans can reveal incomplete bladder emptying, which may be linked to prostate enlargement or neurological issues.
For patients with recurrent UTIs, ultrasound helps detect structural causes or obstruction. Because it is quick, non-invasive, and highly accurate at identifying obstruction or anatomical issues, ultrasound is often the first choice for diagnosing kidney and bladder problems.
