OVERVIEW:
WHAT IS RENAL DOPPLER?
Doppler ultrasound measures blood-flow speed in arteries to the kidney. It uses sound waves to show the size and structure of the kidney.
HOW IS THE TEST PERFORMED?
An ultrasound machine makes images of both the kidneys inside the body. The machine sends out high-frequency sound waves that reflect off body structures. A computer receives these waves and uses them to create a picture. Unlike with x-rays or CT scans, this test does not expose you to ionizing radiation.
You will be lying down for the procedure. A clear, water-based conducting gel is applied to the skin over the kidneys. This helps with the transmission of the sound waves. A handheld probe called a transducer is then moved over the abdomen.
You may need to change position so that the health care provider can look at different areas. You may also need to hold your breath for short periods during the exam.
Most of the time, the test takes less than 30 minutes.
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULT:
Normal Results
The kidneys examined appear normal.
What Abnormal Results Mean
An abdominal ultrasound can indicate an important condition known as RENAL ARTERY STENOSIS:
RENAL ARTERY STENOSIS:
Renal artery stenosis is a narrowing of arteries that carry blood to one or both of the kidneys. Most often seen in older people with atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), renal artery stenosis can worsen over time and often leads to hypertension (high blood pressure) and kidney damage.
WHY GET TESTED?
You may have this test to:
- Find the cause of abdominal pain
- Find the cause of kidney infections
- Diagnose and monitor tumors and cancers
- Diagnose renal artery stenosis
- Learn why there is swelling
- Look for damage after an injury
- Look for stones in the kidney
- Look for the cause of abnormal blood tests such as liver function tests or kidney tests