Palmetto Preventive
Outpatient Ultrasound

Renal / Kidney Ultrasound

A kidney ultrasound looks at kidney size and structure and can detect urine backup (hydronephrosis), some stones, and cysts. The bladder may also be assessed.

What the exam evaluates

  • The size and appearance of the kidneys
  • Kidney stones, cysts, or other findings
  • Changes compared with prior imaging, when available

Common reasons for this exam

  • Evaluation of abnormal kidney function or suspected urinary blockage.
  • Follow-up of known kidney cysts or stones.
  • Selected cases of recurrent urinary infection or blood in the urine, as directed by a clinician.

Approximate duration

Most exams take about 20 to 30 minutes once approved. You can typically return to normal activities immediately afterward.

What to expect

The sonographer applies gel and moves a handheld probe over your skin. You may be asked to change position or briefly hold your breath. Pressure over a tender area can be uncomfortable; tell the sonographer so they can adjust. Ultrasound uses sound waves, with no ionizing radiation. You can usually resume normal activities afterward.

How to prepare

Follow your appointment instructions

  • This exam must be scheduled at least three days in advance so the appropriate sonographer can be available.
  • You may need a comfortably full bladder. Follow the appointment instructions for how much to drink and when; do not force fluids if you have a fluid restriction.
  • Tell the team if you cannot comfortably hold urine. They can advise you before starting.
  • Wear clothing that gives easy access to the area being scanned. Bring earlier imaging reports and your order, if available.
  • Continue prescribed medicines unless your clinician gives different instructions. Tell the team about pain, limited mobility, or positioning needs.

Understanding your results

  • Some stones and ureter abnormalities are missed by ultrasound.
  • Kidney function is assessed with blood and urine tests; a normal scan does not exclude kidney disease.

What happens next?

A radiologist interprets the images. Review the report and any recommended next steps with your clinician. The sonographer may not be able to give a diagnosis during the appointment. Persistent symptoms still need follow-up even when the scan is normal.

Sources & further reading

This patient summary draws on published clinical literature and professional guidance. Patient resources are identified separately below. Preparation also depends on your specific order and the collecting laboratory or imaging team.

Content updated October 11, 2026. General education; individual advice comes from your care team.

Transparent pricing

Know the cost before your visit

Palmetto Preventive is a direct-pay service. You will see clear payment terms before your booking is finalized — no surprise imaging-center bill.

Self-pay price

$260.00/ exam

One transparent price for this exam. Payment terms are presented before your booking is finalized.

Start booking

Our pricing promise

Transparent self-pay pricing — you see the price before you book.

No surprise bills after your visit.

If your service is not approved, your payment is refunded in full.

A note on what we are. Palmetto Preventive provides non-emergency outpatient diagnostic imaging and laboratory services. We are not an emergency department, urgent care center, hospital, or a substitute for emergency evaluation, and we are not a longitudinal primary-care practice. If you are experiencing severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical care or call 911.

Ready to get started?

Start the guided booking. It takes just a few minutes, and you can move back and forth without losing your answers.

Start booking