The role of radiological imaging

X-ray-based imaging modalities of plain fi lms and computerized tomography (CT) are the common modalities used to detect urinary tract calculi. Plain fi lms on their own have a low sensitivity and speci fi city for the detection of renal stones. Intravenous urograms (IVUs), which are obtained by intravenously injecting iodine-containing organic compounds prior to taking X-ray images, were the mainstay of radiological detection. Several problems were associated with the use of these iodinated compounds. The advent of helical CT has obviated their need in the majority of patients. CT scanning detects renal calculi with a high degree of accuracy. Exposure to ionizing radiation is a concern that needs to be addressed and dose-reduction measures should be employed whenever feasible.