Renal Tract / Kidney & Bladder Scan
What Is a Renal Tract / Kidney & Bladder Scan?
A kidney and bladder ultrasound (also known as a renal tract scan) is a safe, non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of your kidneys, bladder, and surrounding urinary structures.
This scan helps diagnose conditions affecting the urinary system, including kidney stones, cysts, tumours, infections, and problems with urine flow.
What We Assess With This Scan
- Both kidneys (size, shape, structure)
- Bladder (wall thickness, any abnormalities)
- Ureters (the tubes connecting kidneys to bladder, when visible)
- Post-void residual volume (urine remaining after emptying bladder)
This scan cannot assess:
- Kidney function (blood tests are needed for this)
- Small stones in the ureters (CT may be needed)
Why You Might Need This Scan
Common symptoms:
- •Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- •Blood in the urine (haematuria)
- •Lower back or abdominal pain
- •Pain when urinating
- •Difficulty urinating or weak stream
- •Frequent urination, especially at night
Conditions we assess:
- •Kidney stones
- •Kidney cysts
- •Hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney due to urine build-up)
- •Kidney tumours or masses
- •Bladder abnormalities
- •Chronic kidney disease changes
- •Urinary retention (incomplete bladder emptying)
What to Expect
Before Your Scan
Full bladder required: Drink at least 800ml (3-4 glasses) of water about 60 minutes before your appointment. Avoid urinating until after the first part of the scan. Fasting required: Do not eat for at least 6 hours before your scan. This helps visualise the kidneys and surrounding structures more clearly.
Preparation checklist:
- Fast for 6 hours before your appointment
- Drink 800ml of water 60 minutes before appointment
- Avoid urinating until after the bladder is scanned
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- Arrive 10 minutes before your appointment time
During the Scan
You'll lie on an examination table. Warm gel is applied to your abdomen and back (kidneys are located towards the back). The sonographer gently moves a handheld probe over your skin to capture images. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly, turn onto your side, or change position. After the initial scan, you'll be asked to empty your bladder. When you return, additional images measure your post-void residual. The entire procedure takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
After Your Scan
You can eat, drink, and return to normal activities immediately. There are no restrictions.
Results & Next Steps
Your scan is reviewed by a consultant radiologist, who prepares a formal report. This report is sent to your referring doctor within 2-3 working days. A normal post-void residual is typically less than 50ml. Elevated residuals may indicate bladder dysfunction or obstruction.
Pricing
Price: €270 (Medical Card: €250)
Cancellation: We require 24 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Our experienced team is available 7 days a week across our three Dublin locations.