Renal & Bladder Ultrasound Scan

Benefits of a Private Kidneys & Bladder Ultrasound Scan

A kidneys and bladder ultrasound is a safe, quick and effective way to assess the urinary system. It can help investigate symptoms such as pain, urinary discomfort, changes in bladder habits, or provide reassurance if you have known kidney or urinary concerns.

Choosing MedHealth means fast access to appointments, clear explanations, and caring, professional support throughout your scan.

With MedHealth you can expect:

• No waiting lists – prompt appointment availability

• NHS-trained, experienced sonographers

• High-resolution ultrasound imaging for detailed assessment

• A clear verbal explanation of your results, during your appointment

• A written medical report sent securely to you and/or your GP

• A calm and private clinical environment where your comfort is prioritised

This scan is commonly used to investigate symptoms, monitor known kidney or bladder conditions, or simply provide peace of mind.

Why Might I Need This Scan?

You may wish to have a kidneys and bladder scan if you are experiencing:

• Lower back, flank or abdominal pain

• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Increased urinary frequency or urgency

• Pain or burning when passing urine

• Blood in the urine (haematuria)

• Difficulty passing urine or incomplete emptying

• Changes in bladder habits

This scan can help detect or monitor:

• Kidney stones

• Hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney)

• Bladder wall abnormalities

• Renal cysts

• Structural kidney changes

• Urinary retention or incomplete bladder emptying

• Prostate-related bladder effects (in men)

It is also useful as part of ongoing monitoring for chronic kidney issues or recurrent urinary symptoms.

Renal / Kidney & Bladder Ultrasound FAQs

1. What does a kidney ultrasound assess?
   The scan assesses the kidneys and may include the bladder depending on symptoms, looking for dilation, stones, cysts, or structural changes.

2. Do I need a full bladder?
   If the bladder is being assessed, yes — we may ask you to arrive with a comfortably full bladder. We’ll confirm at booking.

3. Can ultrasound detect kidney stones?
   It can sometimes see stones and can detect secondary signs (like obstruction). Some stones can be difficult to visualise — we’ll explain what we can and can’t confirm.

4. How long does the scan take?
   Usually 15–25 minutes.

5. What symptoms is this scan used for?
   Flank pain, recurrent UTIs, urinary symptoms, blood in urine (haematuria), or concerns about kidney structure.

6. How quickly do I get a report?
   Typically on the same day, delivered digitally.

7. What happens if something needs urgent attention?
   If an urgent finding is suspected, we’ll advise prompt clinical follow-up and appropriate escalation.

What Happens During the Scan?

• You will be asked to lie comfortably on the examination couch.

• A small amount of ultrasound gel is applied to your abdomen.

• A handheld ultrasound probe is moved gently over the area to obtain images.

• To assess bladder emptying, you may be asked to use the bathroom and return for a quick re-scan.

• The scan usually takes 10–15 minutes, is non-invasive and pain-free.

• Your sonographer will explain your results immediately.

• A written report will be provided promptly.

Price

£179