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Fast, accurate diagnosis of kidney stones, infections, and urinary tract abnormalities. Expert assessment of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder for both men and women.
A urinary tract ultrasound-scan is a non-invasive, painless diagnostic imaging procedure that evaluates the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of your urinary system, allowing our consultant sonographers to identify the cause of pain, bleeding, or urinary symptoms.
Urinary tract or waterworks problems are very common, impacting both sexes. Kidney stones can cause immense pain and stop the kidneys from draining to the bladder by blocking the ureters, resulting in hydronephrosis. If left untreated, this can result in scarring and significant kidney damage.
Bladder issues are also frequent. In men, these can be associated with an enlarged prostate. In women, they can be the result of uterine fibroids pressing on the bladder. Early diagnosis is essential for proper treatment and symptom management.
Need a broader assessment?
View Abdomen & Urinary Tract ScanA comprehensive assessment of your entire urinary system.
We assess the size, shape, and structure of both kidneys. The scan detects kidney stones, cysts, solid tumours, and signs of chronic kidney disease or hydronephrosis (swelling due to urine build-up).
We evaluate the bladder wall thickness, capacity, and emptying ability (post-void residual volume). We also check the ureters for blockages caused by descending kidney stones.
For male patients, the scan includes an assessment of the prostate gland size and volume, which is crucial for investigating urinary frequency, hesitancy, or incomplete bladder emptying.
A urinary tract ultrasound-scan is the primary imaging modality for investigating a wide range of urological symptoms and conditions.
While an ultrasound is excellent for diagnosing the cause of symptoms, you should seek immediate emergency medical attention (A&E or 999) if you experience:
Proper preparation is essential for a clear and accurate urinary tract ultrasound-scan. The bladder must be full to act as an acoustic window, allowing the sound waves to travel effectively and provide clear images of the bladder walls and surrounding structures.
You must drink 1 litre (2 pints) of clear water exactly 1 hour before your appointment time.
Please do not use the toilet before your scan. Your bladder needs to be comfortably full for the examination.
Please wear loose, comfortable clothing. A two-piece outfit (such as trousers/skirt and a top) is ideal, as you will only need to expose your abdomen from the lower ribs down to the pelvic bone.
A clear, step-by-step guide to your private ultrasound experience.
Arrive at our Harley Street clinic with a full bladder. Our team will welcome you and confirm your details.
Your consultant sonographer will explain the procedure and briefly discuss your symptoms and medical history.
Warm gel is applied to your abdomen. The sonographer glides a small probe over your skin to capture real-time images.
During and immediately after the examination, the sonographer will explain the findings to you clearly.
You will receive a comprehensive medical report and high-resolution images to take away or share with your GP.
We believe in clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Your appointment includes everything needed for a complete diagnostic assessment.
Complete urinary tract assessment
If you are experiencing general abdominal pain alongside urinary symptoms, a combined scan may be more appropriate.
No, you do not need a GP referral to book a private ultrasound-scan with Sonoworld. You can self-refer and book directly online or by phone. If you do have a referral letter, please bring it with you to your appointment.
Yes, the urinary tract scan is suitable for both sexes. For male patients, the scan also includes an assessment of the prostate gland, as an enlarged prostate is a common cause of bladder and urinary issues.
A full bladder is essential for this scan as it acts as an acoustic window to view the pelvic organs clearly. If your bladder is not full upon arrival, your scan may be delayed while you drink water, or we may need to reschedule your appointment.
You will receive immediate verbal feedback during the examination. A comprehensive written medical report and high-resolution images will be provided to you on the same day, usually immediately after your appointment.
Yes, ultrasound is highly effective at detecting kidney stones, as well as identifying hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney), which is often caused by a stone blocking the ureter.
Sonoworld Diagnostic Services
29 Weymouth Street
Marylebone, London
W1G 7DB
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