Indications for Radiographic Assessment in Suspected Renal Trauma

Abstract

We recommend that the criteria for radiographic assessment of suspected renal trauma be: (1) penetrating trauma to the flank or abdomen, regardless of the degree of hematuria; (2) blunt trauma and gross hematuria; or (3) blunt trauma associated with microhematuria and blood pressure below 90 mm Hg before or after emergency room admission. In hemodynamically stable patients in whom renal injury alone is suspected, we recommend intravenous urography, which will adequately stage 60 to 85 per cent of renal injuries. Computed tomography should be performed if the urography results are equivocal or as the primary study when multiple injuries are suspected. Arteriography can be reserved for patients with suspected renovascular injuries in whom CT scans are inconclusive.