A CT urography scan of the kidney is an imaging test to assess the condition of the urinary tract. The urinary tract includes the kidneys, bladder and the ureters (ureters) that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
Doctors can use CT scans to see if internal structures appear healthy or are functioning properly, and to check for signs of disease.
Doctors may recommend a native kidney CT scan, a contrast-enhanced kidney CT urography scan, if, for example, someone has blood in their urine, called haematuria, or if they have pain in the groin or lower back. The results of the test can help doctors diagnose conditions such as:
Your doctor may also recommend a low-dose abdominopelvic CT scan or a native kidney and bladder X-ray to confirm the presence of kidney stones, if no other functional questions are being asked.
Intravenous urography is a traditional X-ray examination procedure in which a patient is given a radiation-absorbing substance, or contrast medium, intravenously and then radiologists use fluoroscopic X-ray equipment to observe the staining of the kidney.
The contrast agent used during the procedure should not be used in cases of reduced kidney function (reduced renal function GFR laboratory parameter), as the kidneys will not be able to excrete the contrast agent properly and are therefore at risk.
Traditional X-ray urography is an outdated or limited method of examination, nowadays CT urography is used. Although CT is a more expensive test, it is a much more detailed procedure. It can also help to identify tumours and other lesions affecting the kidneys and urinary tract, bladder, and their nature and size, and to assess their surroundings. In the case of obstruction or urinary tract stricture, its extent can be plotted and the excretion from the kidney can be followed.
The CT scanner consists of a rotating X-ray machine. The person lies in the scanner while the inner part rotates and takes X-ray images from different angles. A computer then processes these images so that the doctor can see pictures of a particular area of the body. In contrast to conventional X-rays, soft tissue, organs, blood vessels and lymph nodes can be seen alongside the bones.
Before a renal CT scan, all metal objects, including jewellery, should be removed from the region, as they may interfere with the CT scan.
You should arrive for abdominal and pelvic examinations, including CT urography, with a 4-6 hour fast. A special fluid intake prior to the scan will prepare for imaging of the digestive organs.
For contrast studies, oral diabetes medication should be avoided for two days before and two days after the study. It is important to have a renal function laboratory test to check whether the contrast agent can be administered.
Allergic reactions to contrast media are rare, so those who are allergic to iodine should not undergo this part of the procedure. The findings will be assessed by a specialist after the test.
Do you need a kidney CT scan, CT urography, or would you like to visit an excellent urologist? Book an appointment with our specialists easily and simply, or call us at +36-1-323-7000 and we will see you at our well-equipped clinic in Buda without a long wait.
