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.