Renal Scan

The Procedure

This involves an ultrasound assessment of the kidneys, bladder and your pelvic region nearby. A filled bladder is a must for this scan which you will be informed about at the time of booking.

Ultrasound uses high frequency pulsed sound waves to produce images of the organs in the pelvis. Scanning will be performed across your tummy.

What happens on the day?

When you arrive for your scan you will be asked to fill out a form which helps us understand your concerns.

The sonographer will then take you through to the scanning room.

You will be asked to lie on the table and expose your tummy. A towel will be tucked into your pants to limit spread of the gel onto your clothes.

Clear gel is applied to your tummy and the sonographer moves the probe over your tummy recording images. Measurements will be taken of your bladder whilst it is full and your kidneys.

You will then be sent to the toilet to empty your bladder.

You will be re-scanned after emptying your bladder to see if your bladder has emptied completely.

The sonographer will leave the room after the scan to review the images and to discuss them with the Radiologist. Sometimes for clarification more images are required.

Risks

Scanning across the tummy requires some probe pressure and may be uncomfortable. It is rarely painful.

Benefits

A renal scan can give us a lot of information about your kidneys and bladder. We are able to see how well you empty your bladder after you go to the toilet. We can also assess if there any issues in your kidneys that might be causing you some problems.

What is an Ultrasound scan?

An ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. Sound waves are used instead of radiation which makes them safe.

Why have a Renal Scan at Women’s Imaging?

Our sonographers are trained to the highest standards and your renal scan will be checked by our in-house radiologist before you leave our practice. If there is any clinical concern about your scan we will come and discuss this with you.

How long will it take?

A renal scan takes approximately 30 minutes.

How should I prepare for the scan?

You should arrive for your scan with a filled bladder. We recommend that you drink 2 glasses of water a half hour before your scan time. Remember to bring your referral form with you. We will scan you across your tummy to start with and then we will send you to the toilet to empty your bladder before re-scanning you again.

Can I bring a friend along with me for my scan?

We are happy for you to bring a friend along with you.

When will I get my results of my scan?

The full report of the scan will be with your doctor within 48 hours. If there is anything of major clinical concern that we uncover from your scan, we will come and speak to you on the day. There are lots of normal benign things that we see all the time. We do not ordinarily discuss these normal findings with patients.