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Published on: July 19, 2011
A comparison between diuresis renography and the Whitaker test in 64 kidneys
British Journal of Urology
|December 1, 1984
Summary
Diuresis renography may indicate unobstructed urinary flow, yet obstruction may still exist. The Whitaker test reliably identifies patients who will benefit from pyeloplasty, improving outcomes for upper urinary tract obstruction.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Dilated pelvicaliceal systems can present diagnostic challenges.
- Distinguishing true obstruction from non-obstructed but abnormal flow is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the correlation between diuresis renography and the Whitaker test in diagnosing upper urinary tract obstruction.
- To assess the utility of these tests in guiding surgical intervention for suspected obstruction.
Main Methods:
- Diuresis renography and the Whitaker test were performed on 64 dilated pelvicaliceal units from 57 patients.
- Renographic responses (Type I, II, IIIa, IIIb) were compared with Whitaker test criteria for obstruction.
Main Results:
- Of 45 kidneys with a renographic response suggesting no obstruction (Type I or IIIa), 32 were confirmed obstructed by the Whitaker test.
- 35 obstructed kidneys, often associated with severe loin pain, showed excellent outcomes post-surgery.
- A Type I or IIIa renographic response in a dilated, painful system does not exclude obstruction.
Conclusions:
- Diuresis renography is a sensitive indicator of upper urinary tract urodynamic disturbance and useful for post-operative assessment.
- The Whitaker test is reliable for selecting patients who will benefit from pyeloplasty.
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