[Possibilities and limits of computer tomography in ureteral obstruction]

A report is given on the diagnosis of obstructions of the ureter by means of computerized tomography, using 8 examples. We distinguish between exterior compression, stricture of the ureteral wall and intracanalicular blockage. Computerized tomography is indicated above all for external compressions on which anamnesis gives no information. The typical finding with CT is ectasis of the ureter above the stenotic region and structures with dense soft parts in the compression section, whereby the density pattern often gives hints as to the nature of the compression. However, benign genesis cannot always be distinguished from a malignant process.