KUB X-RAY SCAN

A KUB X-Ray Scan (short for Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder) is a low-radiation imaging test that captures a single, high-resolution image of your entire urinary tract. It helps detect stones, blockages, and structural abnormalities without needles, contrast dye, or long waiting times.

What is a KUB X-Ray Scan?

Using a digital X-ray machine, the technologist positions you on the table and takes 2–3 quick images. The scan shows:

• Kidneys – size, shape, and stone presence
• Ureters – any dilation or calcification
• Bladder – outline, residual volume, or wall thickening
  The entire process is painless, non-invasive, and radiation exposure is kept well within safe limits.

When and Who Needs a KUB X-Ray Scan?

Symptoms indicating a KUB scan

• Sharp flank pain
• Blood in urine
• Frequent or painful urination
• Suspected urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Follow-up after stone removal

Age & gender eligibility

• Adults: 18 years and above
• Children: Only under pediatrician referral
• Pregnant women: Not recommended; safer alternatives like ultrasound are advised

Types of KUB X-Ray Scan

Plain KUB radiograph (supine)

The standard view taken while lying flat; ideal for routine evaluation.

Erect KUB (to detect air-fluid levels)

Taken while standing or sitting up; helps spot bowel obstruction or abnormal gas patterns.

• Kidney size & contour
• Presence of radio-opaque stones
• Ureter course & any dilation
• Bladder shape & wall thickness
• Gas pattern in the abdomen
• Spinal alignment (as incidental finding)

• Suspected kidney or bladder stones
• Recurrent urinary infections
• Post-surgical check-up
• Evaluation of flank pain
• Monitoring known stone disease

Symptoms indicating a KUB scan

• Sharp flank pain
• Blood in urine
• Frequent or painful urination
• Suspected urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Follow-up after stone removal

Age & gender eligibility

• Adults: 18 years and above
• Children: Only under pediatrician referral
• Pregnant women: Not recommended; safer alternatives like ultrasound are advised

Benefits of Choosing a Digital KUB X-Ray Scan at Cadabams

• High-resolution images for accurate diagnosis
• 30-minute total visit time – from check-in to printed report
• Online report access – download your images and report within an hour

Illnesses Diagnosed with a KUB X-Ray Scan

• Renal calculi (kidney stones)
• Ureteric calculi
• Bladder stones
• Hydronephrosis
• Enlarged prostate (when bladder outline is distorted)
• Spinal or pelvic fractures (seen incidentally)

• Fasting: Not required; eat and drink normally.
• Clothing: Wear loose, metal-free garments or change into a gown.
• Remove jewelry around the abdomen and pelvis.

Pre-requisites for a KUB X-Ray Scan

• Valid doctor’s prescription or referral note
• Previous scan films or CDs (if any) for comparison
• Pregnancy status declaration form for women of child-bearing age

Best Time to Take a KUB X-Ray Scan

• Morning to early afternoon slots are ideal for same-day report turnaround.
• Avoid booking immediately after barium studies; residual barium can obscure details.

Eligibility Criteria for a KUB X-Ray Scan

• Age: 18+ (or pediatric referral)
• Weight: Up to 150 kg table limit
• Renal function: No restrictions
• No allergy concerns (no contrast used)

Step-by-Step Procedure for a KUB X-Ray Scan

1. Check-in & registration – Bring ID and prescription.
2. Positioning on X-ray table – Lie supine or stand for erect view.
3. Image capture (2–3 shots) – Hold still for 1–2 seconds per image.
4. Immediate preview & digital transfer to radiologist – You’ll see a quick preview; the radiologist reviews within minutes.

Caution Before Taking the KUB X-Ray Scan

• Inform staff if you are or might be pregnant.
• Remove metallic objects to prevent artifacts.
• Let the technologist know if you have mobility issues that affect positioning.