Ultrasound of the urinary system includes the diagnosis of the kidneys, bladder, and ureters, and in men, also the prostate gland. The test is most often performed in individuals who exhibit concerning symptoms related to the urinary system. USG is an imaging test that uses ultrasound waves of a specific frequency. These waves penetrate the body, reflecting off internal organs, and the echo returns to the probe, which is then transformed into images visible on the monitor. Ultrasound of the urinary system allows for the precise visualization of the bladder, ureters, kidneys, and prostate gland in men.

Indications for Ultrasound of the Urinary System

Ultrasound of the bladder and other urinary structures is performed when the patient notices the following concerning symptoms:

• frequent urination,
• need to urinate at night,
• presence of blood in the urine,
• unexplained lower abdominal pain,
• feeling of incomplete bladder emptying,
• urinary incontinence or involuntary urination, e.g., during coughing or physical exertion,
• prostate enlargement in men detected during a rectal examination,
• palpable lumps in the lower abdomen. Ultrasound of the urinary system is also performed in patients with abnormalities detected in urine laboratory analysis, as part of preparation for planned surgeries, and as a follow-up to assess the effectiveness of treatment.

Contraindications for Ultrasound of the Urinary System

There are no contraindications for performing ultrasound of the bladder and other urinary structures. It is a non-invasive and safe procedure, so it can be performed even in children, pregnant women, and elderly patients whenever needed.

How to Prepare for Ultrasound of the Urinary System?

Preparation for ultrasound of the urinary system requires certain steps from the patient. A few days before the test, a light diet should be followed, avoiding gas-producing foods. The day before, it is advisable to take over-the-counter medications to reduce intestinal gas. It is not necessary to fast, but the last small meal should be consumed a few hours before the test. It is important to drink about 1.5 liters of water approximately an hour before the ultrasound and not to empty the bladder. The bladder should be filled to allow for a more accurate assessment of its size and shape and to detect any abnormalities.

How is Ultrasound of the Urinary System Performed?

Ultrasound of the urinary system is performed in a lying position on the back, usually in two stages. Initially, the doctor examines the patient with a filled bladder, moving the probe over the lower abdomen. Then, the patient may empty the bladder, and the doctor continues the examination, asking the patient to turn on their left and right sides, and sometimes even lie on their stomach to visualize the kidneys accurately. The entire examination usually takes about 15 minutes.