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Ultrasound · Full bladder required

Renal (Kidney & Bladder) Ultrasound in Miami

Fast, radiation-free imaging of the kidneys and urinary bladder to evaluate stones, blockages, cysts and kidney function concerns.
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Overview

Imaging Your Kidneys and Bladder

A renal ultrasound produces images of both kidneys and the urinary bladder. It can measure kidney size, detect stones, cysts or masses, identify blockages (hydronephrosis), and assess how well the bladder empties.

Why Your Doctor May Order It

  • Abnormal kidney function blood tests (creatinine, GFR)
  • Kidney stones or flank pain
  • Blood in the urine
  • Frequent or recurrent urinary tract infections
  • Difficulty urinating or incomplete bladder emptying
  • Monitoring of chronic kidney disease or kidney cysts

Preparation required

How to Prepare

Water
Drink 24–32 oz (3–4 glasses) of water, finishing 1 hour before your appointment.
Bladder
Do not empty your bladder until the exam is complete — a full bladder is needed for clear images.
Food
No fasting required; eat normally.
Medications
Take your usual medications.
Duration
About 30 minutes.
Always follow any instructions from your ordering physician. Questions? Call 786-353-9160.
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What to expect

Your Exam, Step by Step

01

Check in

Arrive 10 minutes early with your photo ID, insurance card and your physician’s order.
02

Your Scan

The sonographer scans both kidneys from your sides and back, then images your full bladder. You may be asked to empty your bladder and return for a quick post-void image.
03

Results

A board-certified radiologist interprets your study, and the report is sent to your physician within 48 business hours.
Good to know

Services We Don’t Offer

Transvaginal UltrasoundObstetric (Pregnancy) UltrasoundPediatric Imaging
Every other ultrasound exam is available. See all exams →

FAQ

Common Questions

A full bladder lets the sonographer see the bladder wall and contents clearly and assess how well it empties. An empty bladder can’t be properly evaluated.
No. Only an abdominal or aorta ultrasound requires fasting. For a renal ultrasound you may eat normally.
Yes. Ultrasound can show many kidney stones and, importantly, whether a stone is causing a blockage (hydronephrosis).

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Board-certified radiologists. Patient-focused care.

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Same-day and next-day appointments are often available. Book online or call our team with any questions.
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