Renal and urologic sonography provides comprehensive ultrasound imaging of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra to evaluate the entire urinary tract. It encompasses both parenchymal assessment of the kidneys and dynamic functional imaging of the bladder, making it one of the most clinically versatile abdominal ultrasound applications.
Standard renal scans measure kidney dimensions, assess cortical thickness and echogenicity, detect hydronephrosis and its level of obstruction, characterize cystic and solid renal masses using Bosniak classification, and identify calculi. Bladder imaging assesses wall thickness, trabeculation, calculi, diverticula, masses, and post-void residual volume — critical data in the management of overactive bladder, outflow obstruction, and bladder cancer surveillance. Ureteral jets from the ureteral orifices confirm ureteral patency.
Renal and urologic sonography is covered under the ARDMS Abdomen (AB) specialty within the RDMS. Sonographers work in hospital radiology departments, urology practices, nephrology clinics, and transplant centers. Proficiency in Doppler assessment of renal vasculature and familiarity with the spectrum of renal pathology from congenital anomalies to malignancy are key competencies in this subspecialty.