Ultrasound First will perform a kidney ultrasound to create images of your kidneys using sound waves. This non-invasive procedure allows your doctor to evaluate the health and condition of your kidneys. Here’s what you can expect during your kidney ultrasound with Ultrasound First:
- Preparation: Generally, no special preparation is required for a kidney ultrasound. You can eat and drink as usual before the test.
- Procedure: You will lie down on an examination table, and a skilled sonographer from Ultrasound First will apply a clear gel to your abdomen. The gel helps in the transmission of sound waves. The sonographer will use a handheld device called a transducer.
- Transducer placement: The sonographer will gently move the transducer on your abdomen, capturing different views of your kidneys. The transducer emits high-frequency sound waves that penetrate your body and bounce back as echoes.
- Image creation: The transducer detects the echoes produced by the sound waves as they interact with the tissues of your kidneys. These echoes are converted into real-time images displayed on a monitor. The sonographer will carefully examine these images.
- Observations: The skilled sonographer from Ultrasound First will assess the size, shape, and overall appearance of your kidneys. They will look for any abnormalities such as kidney stones, cysts, tumors, or signs of kidney disease. They may also examine the nearby structures like the renal arteries and veins.
- Duration: A kidney ultrasound typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on various factors such as the complexity of the case or the need for additional views.
- Results: After the ultrasound, a specialized radiologist will review the images and interpret the findings. The radiologist will prepare a report that will be sent to your doctor. Your doctor will discuss the results with you during a follow-up appointment. The ultrasound helps your doctor make a diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan, if necessary.
A kidney ultrasound performed by Ultrasound First is a painless procedure and does not have any known risks or side effects. It provides valuable information about the health of your kidneys, assisting your healthcare team in making informed decisions about your well-being.