What is one of the primary goals of a renal ultrasound?

One of the primary goals of a renal ultrasound is identifying structural abnormalities such as cysts or stones. This non-invasive imaging technique is particularly useful for visualizing the anatomy of the kidneys and the surrounding structures. Through ultrasound, healthcare professionals can detect various conditions, including the presence of kidney stones, cysts, abscesses, or tumors. This imaging modality is favored for its ability to differentiate between solid and fluid-filled masses, providing crucial information for diagnosis and management.

While assessing bladder capacity is important in urologic evaluations, it is not specifically the focus of a renal ultrasound. Similarly, evaluating blood flow in the kidneys is generally done using Doppler ultrasound but is not the primary aim of a standard renal ultrasound. Detecting infections typically requires other diagnostic methods, such as urinalysis or cultures, as ultrasound does not directly show infection but may reveal secondary changes associated with it.