Name of the Procedure:

Kidney Imaging Morphology with Vascular Flow and Function, Single Study Without Pharmacological Intervention
Common name(s): Kidney ultrasound, renal Doppler ultrasound

Summary

In this procedure, a healthcare provider uses ultrasound technology to visualize the kidneys and their blood flow without using drugs to enhance the images. This provides insights into the shape, size, and function of the kidneys and their blood vessels.

Purpose

This procedure helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting the kidneys, such as kidney stones, cysts, tumors, or abnormalities in blood flow. The goal is to obtain detailed images of the kidney structures and assess their functionality.

Indications

Indications include:

• Unexplained flank or abdominal pain
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Chronic kidney disease
• High blood pressure (hypertension) of renal origin
• Monitoring of known kidney conditions

Preparation

• Wear comfortable clothing and possibly a gown provided by the medical facility.
• No special fasting or medication adjustments required unless specified by your doctor.
• A recent blood test may be needed to evaluate kidney function.

Procedure Description

1. You will lie on an examination table.
2. A water-based gel is applied to your abdomen to help with sound wave transmission.
3. A transducer (ultrasound probe) is moved over your skin to capture images of your kidneys.
4. The provider may ask you to hold your breath briefly to get clearer images.
5. The procedure focuses on visualizing kidney morphology, blood flow, and functional aspects without the need for medication.

Duration

Approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

Setting

Performed in a hospital's radiology department or an outpatient imaging clinic.

Personnel

• Radiologist or ultrasonographer performs the imaging.
• A radiologist interprets the results.

Risks and Complications

• No radiation exposure, making it very safe.
• Rare risk of discomfort from the pressure of the transducer or allergies to the gel.

Benefits

• Provides detailed kidney images and assesses blood flow.
• Non-invasive and safe.
• Immediate results in some cases, aiding prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Recovery

• No downtime; you can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments depend on the findings.

Alternatives

• CT scan or MRI (provides more detailed images but involves radiation or can be more expensive).
• Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) for detailed urinary tract imaging, but involves radiation and contrast dye.

Patient Experience

• Generally painless and well-tolerated.
• Minimal discomfort from the pressure of the transducer.
• The gel might feel cold but is easily wiped off after the procedure.