CT cystography

CT – computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic method that uses X-rays to create detailed, three-dimensional images of internal organs and structures. During the scanning process, the patient is placed on a table that moves slowly through a cylindrical machine, through which X-rays pass from multiple angles. A special program then combines the resulting images to create a three-dimensional image of the inside of the body. CT is used in the diagnosis of various health problems, including the detection of tumors, traumatic injuries, blood clots, and other conditions. It is important to note that CT uses X-rays, which can represent a certain dose of radiation, so its use must be carefully considered in relation to the benefits and risks

CT cystography at the Atrijum Clinic in Sarajevo

In the Atrium Polyclinic, CT cystography is performed on a modern CT scanner Toshiba Aquilion Prime 160 slice. CT cystography on the Toshiba Aquilion 160 slice device has several advantages compared to other CT devices:

• High resolution: Toshiba Aquilion 160 slice has high image resolution.
• Scanning speed: Thanks to the large number of detectors (in this case 160 slices), scanning is faster than on devices with fewer “slices”. This reduces the risk of motion artifacts, improves image quality, and reduces patient radiation exposure.
• Low radiation dose: Advanced image processing techniques, such as iterative reconstruction and the use of low-dose protocols, reduce the radiation dose needed to obtain high-quality images.
• Accurate diagnostics: High resolution and scanning speed enable precise diagnostics.
• Patient comfort: Faster scanning reduces the time spent in the scanner, improving patient comfort and reducing anxiety.

What is cystography?

Cystography is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the urinary bladder and the lower part of the urinary system. The procedure uses contrast, which is injected into the urinary bladder through a catheter, and then X-ray images are taken for radiological analysis. Cystography is used to assess the condition of the urinary bladder, including the presence of tumors, stones, or other abnormalities. This procedure is often used to evaluate conditions in cases of urination problems, incontinence, or recurrent urinary tract infections. Cystography is usually performed by radiologists or urologists in hospitals or clinics.
The procedure can take from 30 minutes to an hour, and the patient may feel mild discomfort during the injection of the contrast medium. After the procedure, the patient can resume normal activities unless there were complications, which are rare but possible. Cystography can be performed using CT or MRI scanning, which is a less invasive variant of the procedure.

How is CT cystography performed?

Before CT cystography, contrast medium is injected into the patient, which accumulates in the urinary bladder, and then the patient is placed in the scanner. Then CT scanning is performed on the patient, which enables obtaining detailed images of the urinary bladder, ureters, and kidneys. The images are then analyzed to detect possible pathological changes in the urinary system.

Side effects of CT cystography are relatively rare, but they can occur. Possible risks include:
Pain or discomfort during or after the procedure, especially during the injection of contrast medium.
Infections, although very rare, can occur if the procedure is performed on people with a previous urinary tract infection or on patients with a catheter in the urinary bladder.
Risk of kidney damage, especially in people with previous kidney damage or in elderly people.
Urination problems after the procedure, which may be caused by the contrast medium or the procedure itself.

Advantages of CT cystography

CT cystography enables very precise visualization of the urinary system and is therefore very useful in diagnosing various pathological conditions in this area. Also, this type of diagnostic procedure is relatively non-invasive and causes very little discomfort or pain.