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Posted on April 1, 2006 by Yong Moma | Posted under Pregnancy
Why A Renal Ultrasound?
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An ultrasound is also known as a sonography. It works by sending high frequency sound waves through the body that then produces images of the internal organs. Unlike many other types of nuclear tests there is no radiation so therefore there is almost no health risk. Ultrasound is very useful for examining the bladder and kidneys. It can determine the blood flow to the kidneys and the bladder's urine jets using a Doppler ultrasound. Disease of the kidneys can cause high blood pressure and an ultrasound is a very easy way to have a look at the blood supply to the kidneys. A renal ultrasound will be used to explore a variety of conditions or complaints which include: 1. Where abdominal pain is originating such as kidney stones2. Identify congenital abnormalities of the renal tract3. Determine if there is an infection in the bladder or kidneys4. Help with problems relating to the prostate gland5. Identify injuries to the bladder or kidneys after an accident Prior to the scan you will be asked to fill your bladder by drinking 4 to 6 glasses of water about 2 hours before your appointment. The amount of fluid and the length of time before may vary depending on your doctor so be sure to follow the instructions provided. You will be asked to lie on your back on the exam table. The technician will then place a conductive gel on your abdomen and then he or she will run a transducer over the skin going back and forth. The information obtained is sent back to the computer and the image is displayed on the screen. Depending on the examination you may have to lie on your side. You may also be asked to empty your bladder and then the scan repeated. The technician may ask you questions during the examination. The technician may or may not be able to answer your questions during the scan. Sometimes the images need to be further analyzed and often they are not authorized to release information before your doctor has seen the scans. Your doctor will generally have the results in just a couple of days. If an abnormal mass is detected further tests will likely be ordered. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis. You will be given an appointment and asked to show up at the lab or hospital lab. The test can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 45 minutes. If you are obese the examination may not be as accurate. If you wear loose clothing you will probably not even have to strip down. The health of your bladder and kidneys is very important to your overall health and one of the simplest ways to start looking for problems is with a non invasive renal ultrasound. About The Author: Yong has been working for a leading ultrasound manufacturer for last 8 years. At At http://www.ultrasoundlive.com he has provide information about different types of utlrassound equipments. Visit the website to get more information about ultrasound equipment and accessories. |
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