[Ultrasonography of the kidney (author's transl)].

Ultrasound is a nowadays widely accepted diagnostic tool in urology and nephrology. It can improve, supplement or even replace standard radiographic procedures. Indications and limitations are presented. Main indications for renal ultrasound are renal and pararenal masses and nonvisualisation of the kidney. As in any other imaging procedure, the diagnostic accuracy depends on the following: location and size of the lesion and its density compared to that of the neighborhood, and the quality of the imaging unit and of the investigator.