Renal (Kidney and Bladder) Ultrasound in Toronto & the GTA
A scan of your kidneys and bladder, with no radiation and no needles.
At a glance
- How long
- About 20 to 45 minutes depending on the exam
- How to prepare
- See the steps below
- Cost
- Covered by OHIP With a requisition. Without OHIP from $230
- Results
- 24 to 48 hours Report sent to your doctor
A renal ultrasound is a scan of your kidneys and bladder. It uses sound waves to show the size, shape and position of the kidneys and how the bladder looks when it is full. On a requisition it is often written as K.U.B., for kidneys, ureters and bladder. It uses no radiation and no needles.
Your doctor or nurse practitioner orders it on a requisition. They will go over the report with you.
Why your doctor might order it
- To check the size and shape of the kidneys
- To look into urinary symptoms or repeated urinary infections
- To look for kidney stones or a blockage
- To see how well the bladder empties
How to prepare
- If your requisition or the call centre gives you instructions, follow them. Otherwise, call 416-462-0064 before your appointment to check whether you need a full bladder.
- Wear pants or a skirt with a separate top so you can lift or lower your clothing at the waist.
What happens at your appointment
- Arrive at least 15 minutes early with your health card and your signed requisition.
- You lie on the exam table, first on your back and then on each side, so the sonographer can see each kidney.
- The sonographer puts warm gel on your belly and sides and moves a small probe over the skin.
- You may be asked to empty your bladder partway through, and then have a few more pictures taken.
- When it is done you wipe off the gel and carry on with your day.
- A radiologist reads your images. Your results are sent securely to your referring provider, who will review them with you.
How long: About 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the exam.
Cost and OHIP coverage
With a valid Ontario health card and a requisition, this exam is covered by OHIP. There is no charge for the exam, the report or your images.
Without OHIP, Bluewater's cash fee schedule lists a K.U.B. (renal and bladder) ultrasound at $230, as of October 2026. A Doppler study of the renal arteries is a different exam and is listed at $395. The full list of self-pay prices is on our Insurance & Billing page.
Where to have it done
- 123 Edward Street 123 Edward Street, Suite 600, Toronto Book
- Eglinton Avenue East 150 Eglinton Avenue East, Suite 301, Toronto Book
- Etobicoke 3170 Lake Shore Blvd West, Suite 101, Etobicoke Book
- Keele & Ingram 2221 Keele Street, Suite 106, North York Book
- Lawrence & Dufferin 960 Lawrence Ave. West, Suite 203, North York Book
- Scarborough 1371 Neilson Road, Suite 309, Scarborough Book
- University Heights 1275 Finch Ave W, Suite 114, North York Book
- Woodbridge 4600 Highway 7 West, Unit LL30, Woodbridge Book
- Belleville 210 Dundas Street East, Suite 301, Belleville Book
- Port Hope 249 Ontario Street, Suite 110, Port Hope Book
Common questions
Do I need a full bladder for a kidney ultrasound?
Follow the preparation instructions you receive when you book. If you have none, call 416-462-0064 and we will tell you whether to drink water before your scan.
What is a K.U.B. ultrasound?
K.U.B. stands for kidneys, ureters and bladder. It is how many requisitions write a renal ultrasound, a scan of the kidneys and bladder.
Does a renal ultrasound hurt?
No. The sonographer moves a small probe with gel over your belly and sides, with gentle pressure. With a full bladder the pressure can feel uncomfortable, but it does not last long.
Is a renal ultrasound covered by OHIP?
Yes, with a valid Ontario health card and a requisition. Without OHIP, Bluewater's self-pay price for a K.U.B. (renal and bladder) ultrasound is $230, as of October 2026.