Use of dual energy CT urography in evaluation of urinary stone and complex cyst.

Abstract

Dual-energy computed tomography scans can provide significant benefits to the urinary system. The aim of this study is to determine the limitations and benefits of using dual energy CT urography in patients with urinary system stones and cysts. In the analysis of the images, the virtual noncontrasted images obtained from the combined nephrogenicexcretory phase and the true noncontrasted images were evaluated. The true noncontrast images were accepted as the gold standard for stone detection. Eighty-three different stones were detected in 26 of the 115 patients included in the study. Sensibilities of virtual noncontrast images in detecting urinary system stones were 66.7% and 65.4% according to the first and second radiologists, respectively. In this study, 32 hyperdense cysts were detected. According to iodine map images, there was no enhancement in 26 of 32 cysts; only 5 cysts showed minimal contrast enhancement. One patient could not decide on contrast enhancement. As a result, if CT urography is performed with dual energy, it can provide additional information in patients with urinary system disorder.