Multi-detector computed tomography urography

Abstract

The advent of multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) has enabled evaluation of the entire urinary tract during a single breath-hold, with a concomitant reduction in respiratory misregistration and partial-volume effect. In addition, the acquisition of multiple, thin, overlapping slices of optimally distended and opacified urinary tract potentially provides excellent two-dimensional (2-D) and three-dimensional (3-D) reformations of the urinary tract [1]. The concept of multi-detector CT urography (MDCTU) has emerged from these technical improvements. MDCTU may be defined as MDCT examination of the urinary tract in the excretory phase following intravenous contrast administration [2]. The range of indications for MDCTU has rapidly expanded, and the technique has replaced intravenous urography at many institutions for almost all indication. Refinement of MDCTU protocols remains controversial and is still a work in progress, with a variety of protocols being used at different centres. © 2008 Springer-Verlag Milan.