How does ultrasound detect kidney stones?

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to detect kidney stones.

Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal organs and tissues. When sound waves are directed towards the body, they bounce off different tissues and organs, creating echoes that are picked up by the ultrasound machine. These echoes are then used to create a visual representation of the internal structures of the body.

In the case of kidney stones, ultrasound is particularly useful because it can detect the presence of stones without exposing the patient to ionizing radiation. Kidney stones are typically made up of calcium oxalate, uric acid, or struvite, and they can range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. Ultrasound can detect stones of all sizes, and can also determine their location within the kidney or urinary tract.

During an ultrasound examination, the patient lies on a table while a technician applies a gel to the skin over the kidney area. The technician then moves a handheld device called a transducer over the skin, which emits sound waves that bounce off the kidney and surrounding tissues. The echoes are then converted into images that can be viewed on a monitor.

Overall, ultrasound is a safe and effective way to detect kidney stones, and it is often used as a first-line imaging modality for patients with suspected stones. It is also useful for monitoring the size and location of stones over time, and for guiding minimally invasive procedures to remove or break up stones.