A renal ultrasound is a painless, noninvasive exam often used by pediatric urologists to diagnose problems with a child’s kidneys, ureters or bladder. They are ideal for babies and children because they are pain free and have no exposure to radiation. Ultrasound technology uses high-frequency sound waves to make images that show movement of internal organs and blood flow.

Those images reveal things such as:

Kidney size
Cysts or masses
Anatomical differences
Blockage or swelling (called hydronephrosis)
Kidney stones
Kidney trauma

The exam lasts between 15 minutes and an hour. The length of time it takes for your child’s physician to review the images, receive results and discuss them with you depends on several factors such as:

How the results are communicated (fax, email or mail)
The urgency of the situation
Whether more information is needed from the radiologist to interpret the results
Whether there are other tests that need to be compared with the ultrasound results

What to Expect

Your child should arrive at Riley at IU Health for a renal ultrasound with a full bladder. Fluids are encouraged as long as they are not sparkling drinks that could fill the stomach or intestines with gas. Any medications can be consumed with clear liquids prior to the test. Ideally, it is best for children to dress in comfortable clothes that allow easy exposure of the lower abdomen.

Before the ultrasound begins, your child lies face up on an ultrasound table. We prepare him or her for the ultrasound by applying a warm, water-based gel to the skin on the lower abdomen. The ultrasound technologist glides a handheld device called a transducer across the area. Your child may be asked to move into certain positions throughout the test.

The most difficult part of an ultrasound for children is holding still at certain points, which is necessary to obtain clearer images. Our technologists work with children and babies every day, and we understand that they may need to be coaxed through the experience.

Parents and caregivers are welcome to bring a favorite toy, hold a child’s hand or talk to them during the exam. Each exam room has a television to help entertain your child.

Returning Home

There are no side effects from renal ultrasound studies. Your child can resume a normal routine immediately after the test.

Key Points to Remember

Pediatric urologists use renal ultrasound studies to look for problems within the urinary tract.
Ultrasound is a safe, painless technology that does not expose your child to radiation.
It is important that your child come to the exam with a full bladder.
Your child’s exam will last between 15 minutes and an hour.
Parents and caregivers are welcome to help a child be still through a renal ultrasound exam.

Support Services & Resources

Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.

Learn More About Riley Support Services

Urology Care Foundation

This organization has ties to the American Urological Association and promotes research and education in urological care, working with healthcare providers, patients and caregivers.

MedlinePlus

This U.S. National Library of Medicine website shares information on kidney and urological conditions and treatments.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

This U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website shares information for parents and caregivers about urological diseases and treatments.

Locations

In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.