Kidneys/urinary tracts

X-ray (urography)

Used with special indications

• Investigation of hereditary anomalies
• Investigation before endo-urological procedures
• With suspected fistula and other urethral pathology

NB: X-ray is being replaced more and more by CT

Ultrasound

• Assessment of hydronephrosis
• Suspected glomerulonephritis
• Tumours,
• Cysts
• Polycystic kidney disease
• For investigation of recurrent urine. (the patient must come with a full bladder)
• Suspected bladder tumour (the patient must come with a full bladder)

NB: If there is a strong suspicion of bladder tumour, the patient should be referred for cystoscopy.

CT without contrast

• Stone diseases, assess concretions and any blockages

 

CT with contrast (CT Urography)

• Uro-endothelial tumours,
• Suspected renal artery stenosis, in combination with CT angiography of renal arteries
• Macroscopic hematuri
• Trauma
• Pyelonephritis
• Suspected vesico-urethral reflux

MRI

• Suspected renal artery stenosis, in combination with MRI angiography of renal arteries.  Preferred with younger patients to reduce exposure of radiation.