BILATERAL RENAL ARTERY DOPPLER

A bilateral renal artery Doppler is a noninvasive ultrasound that evaluates blood flow in both renal arteries using Doppler sound-wave technology. It measures flow velocity and waveforms to detect narrowing, blockages, or reduced kidney perfusion—common causes of renovascular hypertension or graft problems. Performed by a sonographer, it guides diagnosis and treatment without radiation; brief preparation and occasional fasting may be advised.

A renal Doppler ultrasound is generally painless and non‑invasive. You may feel mild pressure as the probe moves over your abdomen and brief discomfort if the area is tender; the gel can feel cold. The scan may require breath‑holding. No needles or radiation are used, and most people tolerate it well and can resume normal activities immediately.

Costs vary by country, facility, and whether care is public or private. In India it's roughly ₹500–₹3,000. In the UK the test is free on the NHS but private centers charge about £80–£350. In the US outpatient centers typically charge $200–$1,200 (often higher in hospital settings). Always confirm price with the provider or imaging center.

A normal renal artery Doppler shows peak systolic velocity (PSV) below about 180 cm/s, a renal-to-aortic ratio under 3.5, and no focal high‑velocity jet or turbulent flow. Intrarenal waveforms demonstrate continuous forward diastolic flow with a normal resistive index (about 0.47–0.70) and absence of tardus‑parvus waveform, indicating no significant stenosis or impaired renal perfusion.

A renal Doppler ultrasound assesses blood flow in the kidneys and can detect vascular problems—renal artery stenosis, thrombosis, or reduced perfusion—and provide indirect signs of chronic kidney damage (smaller kidney size, altered resistive index). It cannot definitively diagnose many intrinsic parenchymal diseases; diagnosis often requires blood and urine tests, other imaging, or kidney biopsy.

For a renal Doppler ultrasound you should follow the imaging centre’s instructions. Many centres ask you to fast (no food) for 6–8 hours to reduce bowel gas, but small sips of water to take medicines are usually allowed. If the scan includes the bladder/pelvis, you may be asked to arrive with a full bladder. When in doubt, call the radiology department.