Ureteral ultrasound is an imaging examination that allows assessment of the condition of the ureters and detection of possible diseases and abnormalities of the urinary tract. This method is an important diagnostic tool for identifying conditions such as ureteral stones, inflammatory processes, tumors, and other pathological changes.
When is ureteral ultrasound indicated?
Ureteral ultrasound is recommended in the following cases:
- Pain in the lower back or abdomen, especially on one side, which may indicate the presence of stones or other ureteral disorders.
- Urinary retention or disturbances in urinary frequency.
- Hematuria (blood in the urine), which may be a sign of stones or inflammation of the urinary tract.
- Suspected infections of the urinary system, such as cystitis or pyelonephritis.
- Swelling or enlargement of the kidneys, which may be associated with obstruction or pathology of the ureters.
- Follow-up after surgery on the urinary tract or after stone removal.
Advantages of ureteral ultrasound
- Safety — ultrasound does not involve ionizing radiation and is completely safe for the patient.
- Accuracy — allows detection of stones, tumors, strictures, and other abnormalities of the ureters.
- Painlessness — the procedure is non-invasive and does not cause discomfort.
- Accessibility — ultrasound is widely available and provides rapid diagnostic results.
How is ureteral ultrasound performed?
Ureteral ultrasound is usually performed transabdominally using an ultrasound transducer placed on the skin of the abdomen and lumbar region. The patient lies on their back or side while the physician moves the transducer to obtain clear images of the ureters, kidneys, and urinary bladder. In some cases, preliminary preparation may be required, such as having a full bladder to improve visualization.
Ureteral ultrasound is available in leading clinics in Belarus, where qualified specialists perform high-quality examinations and provide appropriate diagnostic conclusions and treatment recommendations.
