Indications and techniques for urologic evaluation of the trauma patient with suspected urologic injury

Injury to the urinary tract occurs in 3% to 10% of patients suffering from blunt or penetrating trauma. Timely assessment of these patients is fundamental in minimizing associated morbidity and mortality rates. We introduce a review of the current treatment of patients with suspected injury to the urinary tract in which we focus on the appropriate diagnostic approach and current advances in the field. This review is divided into sections concentrating on injuries to the kidneys, bladder, and urethra. Pertinent anatomy, mechanism of injury, classification of injury, and indications for evaluation are addressed in each section. Illustrative case studies are also provided to complement relevant teaching points.