Cross-Sectional Urology Imaging Safer
Findings published in the American Journal of Roentgenology suggest that the ideal imaging modality for urography may be a split-bolus, or cross-sectional imaging, technique. This approach entails less exposure to radiation therapy and is, thus, safer for patients.
Researchers from the Stanford University School of Medicine evaluated 500 patients undergoing examination for urinary tract abnormalities. Patients had CT unenhanced scanning of the pelvis and abdomen with split bolus contrast administration. Findings from the study were correlated with other imaging studies, laboratory analysis, and clinical follow-up.
CT urography identified all ten cases of renal cell carcinoma and uroepithelial malignancy of either the ureter or renal collecting system, of which there were eight. Nine other renal masses were also identified. Eleven cases of noninfectious cystitis were captured. Other abnormalities were identified with the technique. Three different false-positive findings were captured with the imaging.
CT urography provided excellent visualization, including small abnormalities to the urinary tract such as papillary necrosis, small urothelial tumors, and renal tubular ecstasia. Additionally, the imaging had a high rate of sensitivity and specificity, as well as positive and negative predicative values.
CT urography enables simplified means to assess symptoms such as painless hematuria. Moreover, this imaging method may replace traditional excretory urography plus sonography, MR, or CT.
September 27, 2007 Related topics: Imaging, Diagnostic, Renal & Urology, Radiology