Renal Ultrasound in Vancouver Kidneys and Bladder
Kidney and bladder ultrasound, also referred to as a KUB ultrasound (kidney, ureter, and bladder), evaluates the urinary system to assess symptoms such as flank pain, urinary changes, or abnormal lab results. In male patients, the prostate is also assessed as part of the exam. It can help detect conditions such as kidney stones, urinary obstruction, cysts, and bladder retention.
What This Ultrasound Evaluates
- Kidneys (size, structure, cysts, masses)
- Ureters (when visible, including signs of obstruction)
- Bladder (volume, wall, and abnormalities)
- Post-void residual (urine remaining after emptying)
- Kidney stones (when visible)
- Hydronephrosis (swelling due to obstruction)
- Prostate size and appearance (in male patients)
Who This Ultrasound Is For
This exam is commonly recommended for:
- Flank or lower back pain
- Suspected kidney stones
- Urinary symptoms (frequency, urgency, difficulty urinating)
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Abnormal kidney function tests
- Evaluation of bladder emptying or retention
- Prostate assessment in men
What to Expect
Your scan is performed by a certified sonographer and takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. You will lie on your back and side while the sonographer examines each kidney and the bladder. The exam is painless. You may be asked to empty your bladder partway through so the sonographer can assess bladder emptying. Bring your physician's requisition form. Your report is delivered within 24 hours.