A targeted diagnostic assessment of both kidneys and the renal tract. Ideal for investigating kidney stones, cysts, hydronephrosis, or abnormal kidney function tests. Same-day appointments at our Harley Street clinic — no GP referral required.
Not sure if this is the right scan? Call our clinical team for guidance.
A private kidney ultrasound-scan is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed real-time images of both kidneys, the renal pelvis, ureters, and bladder.
The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, regulating fluid balance, and producing hormones that control blood pressure. When blood or urine tests reveal abnormal kidney function markers — such as elevated creatinine, eGFR decline, or blood in the urine — ultrasound is the recommended first-line imaging investigation. It can identify structural abnormalities, stones, cysts, and obstructions with high accuracy and without radiation.
At Sonoworld, our consultant sonographers use high-resolution GE ultrasound equipment to deliver a thorough and clinically meaningful assessment of the entire renal tract.
Both kidneys are assessed for size, cortical thickness, and echogenicity. We identify and measure kidney stones, simple or complex cysts (classified using the Bosniak system), and any solid masses that may require further investigation.
The renal pelvis and proximal ureters are examined for dilatation, which may indicate obstruction by a stone, stricture, or external compression. Hydronephrosis is graded to guide clinical management and urgency of follow-up.
The urinary bladder is assessed for wall thickening, polyps, stones, or masses. Where clinically indicated, a post-void residual volume measurement is performed to assess bladder emptying efficiency.
A private kidney scan is recommended if you are experiencing urinary symptoms, have been told your kidney function tests are abnormal, or have a history of kidney stones or recurrent infections.
To ensure the best possible image quality, please follow these simple preparation steps before your kidney scan.
Our private kidney scan provides rapid access to expert diagnostic imaging with no hidden costs and no GP referral required.
No hidden costs. No GP referral required.
Book Your Scan OnlineIf you want to assess your kidneys alongside the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, our abdominal scan covers all upper abdominal organs in a single appointment.
View Abdominal Scan →No, you do not need a GP referral to book a private kidney scan at Sonoworld. You can self-refer and book directly online or by phone. If you have recent blood or urine test results, please bring them to your appointment as they help the sonographer tailor the assessment to your clinical needs.
A full bladder acts as an acoustic window, allowing sound waves to travel more effectively and produce clearer images of the kidneys and bladder wall. It also allows the sonographer to assess bladder capacity, wall thickness, and any lesions within the bladder. We recommend drinking approximately 1 litre of water in the hour before your appointment and avoiding urinating until after the scan.
Ultrasound is highly effective at detecting solid renal masses, which may include renal cell carcinoma. If a suspicious solid mass is identified, the report will recommend further characterisation with CT or MRI. Cysts are classified using the Bosniak system, which stratifies their risk of malignancy from Category I (benign) to Category IV (high risk). The majority of kidney cysts are simple and benign.
Ultrasound is very effective at detecting kidney stones within the kidneys themselves, particularly those larger than 3mm. However, stones in the mid-ureter can be difficult to visualise due to overlying bowel gas. If ureteric stones are strongly suspected, a low-dose CT KUB (kidney, ureter, bladder) may be recommended as a complementary investigation. Your report will clearly indicate if further imaging is advised.
Your consultant sonographer will explain the findings to you immediately after the scan. A comprehensive written report and digital images will be provided on the same day, ready to share with your GP, nephrologist, or urologist.
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