Renal

Renal Ultrasound Overview

  1. Anatomy of Healthy Kidneys Basics of the Kidneys:

  o Position: The kidneys are located on either side of the spine within the retroperitoneal space, with the left kidney generally positioned a bit higher than the right due to the liver’s placement.
 o Composition: Each kidney consists of three main parts: the cortex (outer layer), the medulla (inner structures including the pyramids), and the renal pelvis (the central area for collecting urine).

2 Methods for Renal Imaging Achieving Optimal Images:

  o Patient Orientation: Start with the patient lying flat on their back, then rotate them to either side for better access to the kidneys' lateral surfaces.
 o Probe Choice: A convex or phased array probe is preferred for its ability to penetrate deeper, which is essential for effective renal imaging.
 o Scanning Technique: Begin by positioning the probe perpendicular to the flank, moving it from the upper pole down to the lower pole of the kidney.

3 Kidney Disorders (Cysts, Stones, Tumors)

   o Cysts: These are fluid-filled cavities in the kidney that show up as round, anechoic areas with a bright back wall due to the fluid inside.

 o Stones: Kidney stones appear as bright echoes accompanied by posterior acoustic shadowing, indicating calcifications in the kidney or renal pelvis.

 o Tumors: Tumors can display a range of appearances from hypoechoic to hyperechoic masses. It’s crucial to assess any changes to normal kidney structure or involvement with renal blood vessels.
  Tips for Efficient Scanning o Evaluating Renal Vessels: Use Doppler ultrasound to examine the renal arteries and veins for any signs of vascular issues or clots.