Ultrasound of the Upper Urinary Tract

Abstract

Ultrasound (US) plays a primary role in the assessment and diagnosis of renal and ureteral pathologies and their management. It is considered the first-line imaging modality for evaluation of urinary obstruction, nephrolithiasis, and urinary retention among other indications. US is also essential for evaluation of renal vasculature and assessment of renal transplantation. Contrast-enhanced US is an advanced application of US gaining its acceptance in evaluation of the renal masses.

Keywords: Chronic renal disease; Doppler ultrasound; Renal contrast-enhanced ultrasound; Renal cyst; Renal elastography; Renal mass; Sonography; Upper genitourinary infection.