Renal and adrenal ultrasound is a key imaging exam in the study of the urinary system. It allows the kidneys and adrenal glands to be assessed quickly, safely, and non-invasively, without the use of ionizing radiation. It is indicated in several clinical situations, from urinary symptoms to follow-up of known conditions, and can be performed at any age, including in pregnant women and children.
What is a Renal and Adrenal Ultrasound and what is it for?
Renal and adrenal ultrasound aims to assess the kidneys in terms of their morphology and density, as well as the urinary tract. It also allows the detection of possible nodules or masses, as well as lithiasis (stones) or possible urinary obstructions.
Renal and adrenal ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves emitted by a probe, which pass through the tissues and are reflected, generating real-time images.
At X-Clinic, ultrasounds are performed using the latest technology, with high-end High-Resolution Digital Ultrasound equipment, including three-dimensional technology and real-time 3D visualization – 4D, Color Doppler, and panoramic imaging.
Renal ultrasound is a simple, safe, painless, and harmless technique used to:
- Assess the kidneys in terms of morphology, size, and echogenicity (density);
- Identify nodules, cysts, masses, or renal tumors;
- Detect stones (lithiasis) and obstructions in the urinary tract;
- Assess the adrenal glands, detecting structural or volumetric changes;
- Follow chronic kidney disease and monitor treatments;
- Among other uses.
How much does a Renal and Adrenal Ultrasound cost?
The price of a renal and adrenal ultrasound is €60 on a private basis. However, X-Clinic has the following agreements:
- ADSE (the patient only pays the co-payment of €8), ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers;
- Health Plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans.
The final price varies depending on the healthcare system or insurance you wish to use.
How is it performed?
During the ultrasound, the patient lies on an examination table in a dimly lit room to improve image reading. The doctor applies a transparent gel to the skin of the abdomen and lower back, which facilitates the transmission of the sound waves and the movement of the probe.
The images are observed in real time on a screen and interpreted by the specialist doctor. The exam lasts on average between 15 and 30 minutes.
What does it detect?
Renal and adrenal ultrasound allows a detailed study of the kidneys and adrenal glands, helping to identify various changes. It is possible to observe the presence of simple or complex cysts, nodules and solid masses in the kidney, as well as changes in the adrenal glands. This exam is also very useful for detecting kidney stones (renal lithiasis) and their complications, such as obstruction to the flow of urine. It also allows the detection of dilation of the urinary tract, a situation known as hydronephrosis, usually associated with blockages or stones. Structural changes compatible with infection or inflammation can also be identified.
In addition to initial diagnosis, renal and adrenal ultrasound is a key tool for the follow-up of chronic kidney disease, in the assessment of patients with difficult-to-control high blood pressure, and in monitoring after urological surgery.
In which cases is it indicated?
Renal and adrenal ultrasound may be requested in several situations, such as:
- Lower back or flank pain;
- Presence of blood in the urine (hematuria);
- Suspected or follow-up of renal lithiasis (kidney stones);
- Recurrent urinary tract infections;
- Chronic kidney disease or renal failure;
- Difficult-to-control high blood pressure (assessment of the adrenal glands);
- Assessment of renal masses or cysts identified in other exams;
- Post-surgical or post-renal transplant monitoring;
- Among other situations.
Preparing for Renal and Adrenal Ultrasound
This exam does not require any prior preparation.
However, we recommend that the patient bring previous exams (ultrasounds, tests, or clinical reports) and the medical prescription for the exam.
Where to have it done?
Renal and Adrenal Ultrasound can be performed at X-Clinic (Av. Eng. Duarte Pacheco, nº26 – mezzanine floor, 1070-110 Lisbon) or at NRD (Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070 – 060 Lisbon – next to Praça de Espanha)
