Kidney (renal) Doppler scan
Quick answer: A renal Doppler is an ultrasound that shows blood flow in the arteries and veins of the kidneys. Doctors order it to look for narrowing of the kidney arteries, especially in hard-to-control high blood pressure, or to check a transplanted kidney.
- SampleImaging (no sample)
- TakesAbout 30 to 45 minutes
- Before the testYou may be asked not to eat for a few hours before, to reduce gas in the bowel.
How the test is done
- 1You may be asked not to eat for a few hours beforehand
- 2You lie on your back, then on each side, with your belly and sides uncovered
- 3Gel is applied and the probe is pressed firmly over the kidneys
- 4You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds while flow is measured
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A sonologist or radiologist reports on the scan, and your doctor will explain what the findings mean for you.
If the result is outside the usual range
A renal Doppler can show narrowing of a kidney artery, which can cause hard-to-control high blood pressure, reduced flow to a kidney, a clot in a kidney vein, or flow problems in a transplanted kidney.
Who usually has this test
People with high blood pressure that is hard to control or started young, worsening kidney function, or a kidney transplant.
Risks and aftercare
No radiation is used; firm pressure on your sides may be uncomfortable for a short time, and you can eat normally afterwards.
Names and options
Also called: renal Doppler, renal artery Doppler, kidney Doppler
Listed by the hospital as
- RENAL DOPPLER
Questions about this test
Why does high blood pressure need a kidney Doppler?
Narrowing of a kidney artery can raise blood pressure in some people. A renal Doppler checks for this, especially when pressure stays high despite several medicines.
Why should I avoid eating before a renal Doppler?
Food causes gas in the bowel, which blocks the sound waves. An empty stomach helps the deep kidney arteries show more clearly.
Is a renal Doppler different from a kidney ultrasound?
A kidney ultrasound mainly shows the size and shape of the kidneys. A renal Doppler adds blood flow measurements in the kidney arteries and veins.
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Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.