
Author: Dr. Thomas R. Blake, MD
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Can Kidney Ultrasound Detect Stones Better Than X-Rays?
Kidney stones are a surprisingly common ailment, causing intense pain and discomfort for millions worldwide. Often, their presence isn’t immediately obvious; symptoms can range from…
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How Ultrasound Supports Minimally Invasive Kidney Procedures
The field of urology has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent decades, moving away from large, open surgical procedures towards less invasive techniques. This shift…
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Are There Limitations to Using Ultrasound for Kidney Stone Diagnosis?
Ultrasound has become a cornerstone in the initial evaluation of patients suspected of having kidney stones, lauded for its speed, accessibility, and lack of ionizing…
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What Is the Role of Kidney Ultrasound in Kidney Mass Evaluation?
The discovery of a kidney mass can understandably cause significant anxiety. Often detected incidentally during imaging for unrelated reasons, or because of symptoms like flank…
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How to Distinguish a Simple vs Complex Renal Cyst on Ultrasound
Renal cysts are incredibly common findings on abdominal ultrasound – so much so that encountering one during an exam is almost routine for sonographers and…
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Can You Use Ultrasound to Measure Renal Blood Flow?
Introduction Renal blood flow (RBF) is arguably one of the most critical physiological parameters for maintaining overall health. The kidneys are not merely filters; they’re…
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Do Kidney Ultrasounds Help Evaluate Hematuria?
Hematuria, the presence of blood in the urine, is a symptom that understandably causes concern for many individuals. It can range from barely visible traces…
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Why Your Doctor Might Repeat a Kidney Ultrasound
Kidneys are remarkably resilient organs, constantly working behind the scenes to filter waste and maintain fluid balance in our bodies. Most people rarely give them…
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What Is Corticomedullary Differentiation in a Kidney Scan?
A kidney scan, formally known as a renal scan, is a diagnostic imaging test used to assess the structure and function of the kidneys. It’s…
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Does Ultrasound Help Detect Kidney Shrinkage in CKD?
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) represents a significant global health concern, often progressing silently over years before being detected. Early identification is crucial for slowing disease…