A urinary tract ultrasound is a safe, quick and painless scan and one of the most used tests in a urology clinic. It shows the kidneys, bladder, prostate and testicles without radiation.
Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Samir Ahmed Al-Samarrai, consultant urologist. Last reviewed:
What the scan shows
- Kidneys: size, stones, cysts and masses, and swelling of the kidney drainage system from a blockage.
- Bladder: wall thickness, stones, masses and urine left after voiding.
- Prostate: size, through the abdomen or the rectum as needed.
- Testicles: with Doppler to assess testicular pain, varicocele and lumps.
When it is requested
- Blood in urine.
- Flank pain and suspected stones.
- Repeated infections.
- Difficulty urinating and frequency, to assess the prostate and residual urine.
- Follow-up of stones and masses.
Limits of the scan
Ultrasound may miss some small ureteric stones or fine details of some masses; in these cases the doctor requests a CT scan or MRI.
Related topics
Frequently asked questions
Does a urinary tract ultrasound need preparation?
Usually a full bladder is needed, so you drink several glasses of water about an hour before and do not pass urine; you may be asked to empty your bladder afterwards to measure the urine left.
Is ultrasound safe?
Yes. It uses sound waves and no radiation, so it can be repeated safely.
Does ultrasound show all stones?
It shows most kidney and bladder stones, but may miss some small ureteric stones, and the doctor may request a CT scan when needed.
Discuss your result with a doctor
Book a consultation with Prof. Al-Samarrai or Dr. Amer Mousa to review your result and plan the next step.
This information is for health education; results should be interpreted with your doctor. See our medical content policy.