USG KUB - Meaning, Full Form, Price, Purpose, Procedure

USG KUB (Ultrasonography of Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder) is an imaging test. It visualises and assesses the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.

Detailed images of the urinary system are provided to accurately diagnose and monitor urinary conditions.

What is USG KUB With PVR?

USG KUB with PVR (Post-Void Residual) is an ultrasound examination of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder, with the additional measurement of post-void residual urine volume.

It assesses the amount of urine left in the bladder after urination. 

USG KUB with PVR is performed to evaluate the function of the urinary tract, particularly the bladder.

It identifies issues related to incomplete bladder emptying, such as urinary retention or neurogenic bladder. 

A post-void residual of less than 50 millilitres is considered normal. PVR greater than that may indicate problems.

It includes bladder outlet obstruction, urinary incontinence, or other urinary tract disorders.

USG KUB may be recommended for various individuals, depending on their medical history, symptoms, and clinical presentation.

Symptoms where the doctor recommends a USG KUB test include the following:

1. Pain or discomfort in the abdomen

2. Pain in the back or sides

3. Blood in urine

4. Frequent or urgent urination

5. Difficulty urinating

6. Changes in urine colour

7. Swelling in ankles, legs, or feet

8. Persistent fatigue

9. Loss of appetite

10. Unexplained weight loss

11. Dry, itchy skin

12. Nausea or vomiting

The kidneys can be readily examined using ultrasound, easily detecting most abnormal kidney conditions. The benefits of the test are as follows:

1. Non-invasive: It is a non-invasive imaging technique that does not involve radiation or a contrast medium.

   It uses high-frequency sound waves to produce urinary system images.

2. Visualises the Urinary System: Detailed images of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder are provided using USG KUB.

3. Real-time Imaging: It provides real-time images to observe the movement of urine flow, assess the function of the urinary system, and monitor changes. 

4. Safe: It is safe for patients, including pregnant women, children, and individuals with contraindications to other imaging techniques that involve radiation.

   It does not use ionising radiation or has any known side effects associated with the procedure.

A USG KUB test requires little preparation. The doctor can also provide specific instructions to be followed before the test. It includes:

1. Fasting Information: For patients undergoing an ultrasound to assess the arteries in their kidneys, fasting for six to seven hours is required.

2. Drinking Water: The patient may need to drink several glasses of water one hour before the test and not empty the bladder until after the ultrasound.

3. Inform about Allergies: Before the USG KUB, the patient must inform if they have any allergies or any medical conditions or implants that may affect the test results.

The duration of a USG KUB procedure may vary. Generally, it takes about 20-30 minutes to complete. The test may be performed outpatient or during the hospital stay.

The test involves the following steps:

Step 1: Positioning

The patient will typically lie on a table, either on their back or side. The abdomen and pelvic area may need exposure for proper ultrasound imaging.

Step 2: Application of Gel

A clear, water-based gel will be applied to the skin over the abdominal and pelvic area. This gel helps to improve the transmission of sound waves between the probe and the skin.

It allows for better visualisation of the urinary system.

Step 3: Ultrasound Imaging

A probe called a transducer emits high-frequency sound waves to capture real-time images of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. The transducer is gently moved over the skin surface.

The sound waves bounce back and transform into images on the computer screen.

Step 4: Image Acquisition

The sonographer may take images from different angles and positions to evaluate the urinary system.

The patient may be asked to hold their breath briefly or change positions to facilitate better image capture.

Step 5: Cleaning the Skin

Once the USG KUB is completed, the gel may be wiped off the skin. The patient can leave after that. 

There are no restrictions on the activities after a USG KUB test. The patient can resume normal activities immediately after the test. There is no need for recovery time.

The person can return to regular diet, exercise, and medications. 

The images captured during the USG KUB will be interpreted by a radiologist. The timeframe for receiving the results may vary depending on the diagnostic lab.

However, the results are usually available within 24 hours after the test.

Depending on the results of the USG KUB the doctor may schedule an appointment to discuss the findings in detail.

Common conditions that can be interpreted using USG KUB include:

1. Kidney Stones: It can detect the presence, size, and location of kidney stones. It can help determine the extent of the stone and its potential impact on kidney function.

2. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): The test can assess the kidneys and bladder for signs of infection, such as inflammation or swelling.

   It can also identify structural abnormalities or obstructions in case of recurrent UTIs.

3. Cysts and Tumours: It can help determine their size, location, and characteristics, aiding in evaluating benign versus malignant lesions.

4. Bladder abnormalities: The USG KUB test can assess the bladder for abnormalities such as thickening of the bladder wall, bladder diverticula (pouches), or tumours.

   It may indicate conditions such as bladder cancer or bladder outlet obstruction.

5. Trauma: The USG KUB test can help evaluate the urinary system for injuries or trauma, such as kidney or bladder contusions, ruptures, or haematomas.

If the ultrasound shows no issues, no treatment is needed. Regular check-ups may be advised. For other findings, the treatment includes:

1. Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out small kidney stones or maintain kidney health.

2. Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, can help prevent future kidney and urinary tract problems.

3. Medications: Depending on the diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics for infections or pain management medication for discomfort

4. Lithotripsy: This non-invasive procedure uses shock waves to break down kidney stones into smaller pieces that can pass more easily.

5. Stent Placement: A ureteral stent may be inserted to relieve blockages and ensure the smooth flow of urine.

6. Surgery: In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove kidney stones or address other issues like tumours or blockages.

USG KUB does not involve ionising radiation or contrast medium. The test is generally considered safe.

However, like any medical procedure, rare risks may be associated with USG KUB, although minimal.  

Skin irritation or burns from prolonged exposure to the ultrasound probe can occur. It occurs in rare cases.

Cost of USG KUB Test

The approximate cost of USG KUB in India ranges between ₹ 500 to ₹ 1200. The factors that affect the cost include:

1. Type of facility: The cost may differ at a private hospital, government hospital, or diagnostic centre.

   Private hospitals generally have higher costs than government hospitals or diagnostic centres.

2. Expertise of the Radiologist: Highly experienced and specialised radiologists or sonographers may charge higher fees.

3. Additional tests or procedures: The cost may be higher if additional tests or procedures are required with the USG KUB, such as renal Doppler ultrasound.

4. Insurance coverage: If the patient has insurance coverage, it may impact the out-of-pocket cost for the USG KUB.

USG KUB is a non-invasive imaging test. It provides insights into kidneys, ureters, and bladder. Remember, early diagnosis can lead to timely treatment and better outcomes.

HexaHealth can help you schedule an appointment for USG KUB with a qualified healthcare provider at a convenient time and location. Our team strives to provide coordinated care that helps in improved health outcomes. So, immediately prioritise your urinary health and contact an expert at HexaHealth TODAY!

Suggested Reads

1. Urinary Tract Infection
2. Kidney Stone
3. Urinary Incontinence

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