CT urography

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 urography at the Atrijum Clinic in Sarajevo

In the Atrium Polyclinic, CT urography is performed on a modern CT scanner Toshiba Aquilion Prime 160 slice.

CT urography 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.

CT urography

CT urography is a diagnostic method used for imaging and evaluation of the urinary tract, including the kidneys, urinary bladder, and urethra, that is, parts of the human body that carry urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder. CT urography is a painless imaging method that uses contrast medium and has been proven as an effective method for detecting urinary tract problems.

When is CT urography used?

CT urography is indicated in patients who have blood in urine (hematuria), kidney stones, stones in the urinary bladder, urinary tract carcinoma, obstructive uropathy, urinary infection, cysts, structural anomalies, or urination disturbances.

Patient preparation for CT urography

Before the actual CT urography imaging, it is necessary to have a conversation with the doctor or engineer and check if the patient has known allergies or has had an allergic reaction to contrast medium, if taking medications such as metformin, antibiotics, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, if has diagnosed heart problems, asthma, diabetes, kidney diseases, or has undergone organ transplantation.
For better imaging results, it is necessary to drink enough fluids and not urinate before CT urography so that the urinary bladder expands.

Examination procedure

CT urography is performed by having the patient lie on their back while the table moves and passes through the CT tube, which uses X-rays and detectors to create an image. During imaging, the technician may ask the patient to change position and then take additional images. An IV cannula is placed through which the patient receives contrast medium, which is desirable for adequate assessment of kidney function and the urinary system. Throughout the entire imaging, the engineer monitors the patient’s condition. CT imaging is painless, and X-rays cannot be felt. At the end of the imaging, the patient remains on the CT table while the engineer carefully checks the image, and additional imaging may be done if needed. After completing the imaging, the cannula through which the contrast medium was administered is removed, and the patient can get dressed without hindrance.
The complete imaging process takes between 30-40 minutes.