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Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography

Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography

DefinitionComputed Tomography (CT) of the genitourinary (GU) tract is a non-invasive imaging modality that utilizes X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and adjacent structures such as the adrenal glands.PurposeCT scans of the GU tract serve several diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Diseases: Detects kidney stones, tumors, cysts, and congenital...

Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography

Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography

IntroductionUltrasonography, or renal ultrasound, is a noninvasive medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and surrounding tissues.Indications for Urinary System UltrasonographyUrinary system ultrasonography is indicated in various clinical scenarios, such as:Kidney Stones (Urolithiasis): To detect and monitor the size and presence of kidney or urinary tract stones.Hydronephrosis: To assess the dilation of the renal pelvis and...

Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography

Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography

IntroductionIntravenous Urography (IVU) and Retrograde Pyelography (RP) are important diagnostic imaging techniques used to evaluate the urinary system. These methods help identify structural abnormalities, obstructions, and functional issues in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. Both procedures use iodine-based contrast media to enhance the visibility of urinary tract structures on X-ray images, though they differ in their methods and indications.1. Intravenous Urography (IVU)Intravenous...

Urinary Tract Calculi VI: Surgical Management

Urinary Tract Calculi VI: Surgical Management

Procedures for Kidney StonesMedical intervention is necessary when kidney stones or renal calculi are too large to pass spontaneously (typically greater than 5 millimeters) when stones are accompanied by symptomatic infection (such as fever or pyelonephritis), when they impair kidney function, or when they cause persistent symptoms like severe pain, nausea, or urinary retention. Additionally, patients with only one kidney or those who cannot be treated with medical management also require...

Urinary Tract Calculi III: Medical Management

Urinary Tract Calculi III: Medical Management

The diagnosis of renal calculi involves several imaging techniques, including non-contrast CT scans and ultrasound. These methods help visualize kidney stones, assess their size and location, and detect possible obstructions. Additionally, Measuring urine pH is useful for diagnosing specific stone types, such as struvite (alkaline pH) and uric acid stones (acidic pH). Cystine stones are primarily linked to cystinuria, a genetic condition. A urinalysis helps detect blood in the urine (hematuria)...

Imaging Studies VI: Voiding Cystourethrography and Cystography

Imaging Studies VI: Voiding Cystourethrography and Cystography

Voiding Cystourethrography (VCUG) and Cystography are specialized radiographic procedures used to examine the structure and function of the bladder and urethra.Voiding Cystourethrography (VCUG)A Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that assesses the anatomy and function of the lower urinary tract. It focuses on the bladder, bladder neck, and urethra, helping detect abnormalities such as vesicoureteral reflux (VUR)—the backward or reverse flow of urine into the...

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Updated: Jun 20, 2026

Point-of-Care Kidney and Genitourinary Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition

Point-of-Care Kidney and Genitourinary Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition

Published on: June 21, 2024

Ultrasound versus computerized tomography for evaluating urolithiasis.

Carlo Passerotti¹, Jeanne S Chow, Andres Silva

¹Department of Urology, Children's Hospital Boston, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.

The Journal of Urology

|August 21, 2009

Summary

Ultrasound is a sensitive tool for diagnosing pediatric urinary stones, with results comparable to computerized tomography. Given radiation concerns, ultrasound is recommended as the initial imaging choice for children with suspected urolithiasis.

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Ultrasonography of the Adult Male Urinary Tract for Urinary Functional Testing

Ultrasonography of the Adult Male Urinary Tract for Urinary Functional Testing

Published on: August 14, 2019

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Point-of-Care Kidney and Genitourinary Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition

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Ultrasonography of the Adult Male Urinary Tract for Urinary Functional Testing

Ultrasonography of the Adult Male Urinary Tract for Urinary Functional Testing

Published on: August 14, 2019

Area of Science:

Pediatric radiology
Urology
Diagnostic imaging

Background:

Urinary stone diagnosis in children often relies on imaging.
Computerized tomography (CT) offers high sensitivity but involves radiation exposure.
Ultrasound (US) is a radiation-free alternative, but its diagnostic precision for pediatric urolithiasis requires evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound and computerized tomography for detecting urinary stones in children.
To assess the clinical management impact of discrepancies between ultrasound and computerized tomography findings.

Main Methods:

Prospective evaluation of 50 children with suspected urolithiasis.
Independent, blinded review of ultrasound and computerized tomography scans by radiologists.
Review of discordant findings by pediatric urologists.
Clinical management decisions based independently on each imaging modality's results.

Main Results:

Ultrasound demonstrated 76% sensitivity and 100% specificity compared to computerized tomography.
Computerized tomography identified stones missed by ultrasound in 8 patients (average size 2.3 mm).
Discrepancies in findings did not significantly alter clinical management in most cases, except for 4 instances requiring further imaging.

Conclusions:

While computerized tomography is more sensitive, the clinical significance of this difference compared to ultrasound may be limited.
Ultrasound is a viable first-line imaging modality for children with suspected urinary stones due to its safety profile.
The potential long-term effects of radiation from computerized tomography support prioritizing ultrasound in pediatric imaging.