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Vesicouterine fistula is one of the rare varieties of urogenital fistula. Type I urogenital fistula or Youssef syndrome is characterised by menouria, amenorrhoea and urinary continence and it mostly follows lower segment caesarean delivery. There are only scattered case reports to help guide diagnostic and therapeutic options for this condition. These patients mostly need a combination of diagnostic modalities to confirm the diagnosis. Here, we present one such case of para 4 live 4 with classical symptoms of Youssef syndrome following a laparotomy for uterine rupture repair. CT urography confirmed the diagnosis and cystoscopy helped localise the exact location. Transabdominal fistula excision and repair was done. The paper also presents a summary of diagnostic and therapeutic options for this condition as reported in previous case reports for easy reference for practising gynaecologists and urologists.

To evaluate the detection and quantification of urinary stones using virtual unenhanced images (VUE) at different phases and slice thickness in contrast-enhanced dual-energy CT Urography (DECTU) in comparison with true unenhanced images (TUE).One hundred and twelve urinary stone patients who required triphasic DECTU were analyzed. Data were reconstructed as the followings: TUE images with 1.25 mm thickness (TUE portal venous phase VUE images with 1.25 and 5-mm thickness (VUE(VP)_1.25 mm and VUE(VP)_5 mm) and excretory phase VUE images with 1.25 and 5-mm thickness (VUE(EP)_1.25mm and VUE(EP)_5mm). The. The stones were divided into large (≥5 mm) and small stones. The detection rate, size and CT value of stones were assessed by 2 radiologists and statistically compared among the above groups.Two hundred and thirty urinary stones (163 large and 67 small stones) were detected on TUE_1.25 mm images. For large stones, the detection rate on VUE(VP)_1.25 mm, VUE(VP)_5 mm, VUE(EP)_1.25 mm and VUE(EP)_5 mm was 100%, 96.9%, 85.9%, and 80.4%; while for small stones, the rate was 77.6%, 37.3%, 46.3%, and 23.9%, respectively. VUE(VP) images significantly improved the stone detection rate compared with VUE(EP) images at both slice thicknesses. In general, VUE images identified stones with smaller sizes and lower Hounsfield units, but thinner slice thickness images reduced the inaccuracy. Inter-reader agreement of the stone detection revealed a k value range from 0.85 to 0.94 for TUE and VUE images.Large stones (≥5 mm) can reliably be detected on thin section VUE(VP) images with 33% radiation dose reduction. However, for small stones TUE remains superior. Stone size is underestimated on VUE images.

Objective To determine the sensitivity of dual-energy (DE) virtual non-contrast computed tomography (vNCT), generated from the excretory phase of a CT urogram, compared to true non-contrast CT (tNCT) for the detection of urinary calculi. Methods A search of multiple medical literature databases was performed using predetermined search terms. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and bias risk was assessed by two independent reviewers using the quality assessment of diagnostic accuracy studies (QUADAS) tool. Collated estimates of sensitivity were generated, and sources of heterogeneity were identified and reviewed. Results Thirteen studies (1760 patients; 1740 urinary calculi) were included for sensitivity assessment. Pooled sensitivity for urinary calculi on vNCT was 78.1% (95% CI: 70.2 to 85.0%); however, heterogeneity between studies was very high (I2 = 92.0%). Sources of heterogeneity between studies were explored through subgroup analysis by categorising studies according to slice thickness (≥ 2 mm and < 2 mm), use of oral hydration, and use of intravenous furosemide. Pooled sensitivity for detection of urinary calculi on vNCT for studies that used oral hydration and < 2 mm slice thickness was 92.2% (95% CI: 89.5 to 94.5%). Pooled specificity was not performed as true negatives were not reported in most studies. Potential sources of bias were identified in included studies. Conclusion vNCT demonstrated a moderate pooled sensitivity compared to tNCT for the detection of urinary calculi in split bolus CT urogram protocols. However, subgroup analysis suggests higher sensitivity when employing oral hydration and < 2 mm slice thickness or increment. Key Points • vNCT demonstrated moderate pooled sensitivity for the detection of urinary calculi in split bolus CT urogram protocols. • Subgroup analysis suggested higher sensitivity with oral hydration and < 2 mm slice thickness or increment.

Excretory urography (EU) had been the most frequently performed imaging modality for uroradiology in the past. With the advances in ultrasonography, and development of cross-sectional urography with CT and MRI, EU is now seldom performed. Consequently, there has been a decline of expertise in this technique. However, EU has multiple advantages such as dynamic nature, easy availability, low cost and radiation burden. These render it potentially very valuable in specific indications like congenital anomalies, urothelial lesions and urinary leaks. This review intends to emphasize the current day relevance of excretory urography, outline the key points of the technique, and describe the pearls and pitfalls of interpretation.

Computed tomography-urography is currently the imaging modality of choice for the assessment of the whole urinary tract, giving the possibility to detect and characterize benign and malignant conditions. In particular, computed tomography-urography takes advantage from an improved visualization of the urinary collecting system due to acquisition of delayed scan obtained after excretion of intravenous contrast medium from the kidneys. Nevertheless, the remaining scans are of great help for identification, characterization, and staging of urological tumors. Considering the high number of diseases, urinary segment potentially involved and patients' features, scanning protocols of computed tomography-urography largely vary from one clinical case to another as well as selection and previous preparation of the patient. According to the supramentioned considerations, radiation exposure is also of particular concern. Italian radiologists were asked to express their opinions about computed tomography-urography performance and about its role in their daily practice through an online survey. This paper collects and summarizes the results.

This observer study investigates the effect of computerized artificial intelligence (AI)-based decision support system (CDSS-T) on physicians’ diagnostic accuracy in assessing bladder cancer treatment response. The performance of 17 observers was evaluated when assessing bladder cancer treatment response without and with CDSS-T using pre- and post-chemotherapy CTU scans in 123 patients having 157 pre- and post-treatment cancer pairs. The impact of cancer case difficulty, observers’ clinical experience, institution affiliation, specialty, and the assessment times on the observers’ diagnostic performance with and without using CDSS-T were analyzed. It was found that the average performance of the 17 observers was significantly improved (p = 0.002) when aided by the CDSS-T. The cancer case difficulty, institution affiliation, specialty, and the assessment times influenced the observers’ performance without CDSS-T. The AI-based decision support system has the potential to improve the diagnostic accuracy in assessing bladder cancer treatment response and result in more consistent performance among all physicians.

Purpose To compare the performance of 3D MRU based on a breath-hold gradient- and spin-echo (BH-GRASE) technique with conventional 3D respiratory-triggered FSE (RT-FSE) sequence in patients with urinary tract dilation. Methods We prospectively included 90 patients with urinary tract dilation who underwent both 3D BH-GRASE and RT-FSE MRU at 3T. The acquisition time of two MRU sequences was recorded. Three readers blinded to the protocols reviewed the image quality using a five-point scale and assessed the diagnostic performance related to urinary tract dilation. The relative contrast ratio (CR) between the urinary tract and adjacent area was measured quantitatively. Results Acquisition time was 14.8 s for BH-GRASE MRU and 213.6 ± 52.2 s for RT-FSE MRU. The qualitative image analysis demonstrated significant equivalence between the two MRU protocols. 3D BH-GRASE MRU better depicted bilateral renal calyces than RT-FSE MRU (p p κ = 0.924–1). Conclusion 3D BH-GRASE MRU significantly decreased the acquisition time and achieved comparable image quality, urinary tract visualization, and diagnostic performance with conventional 3D RT-FSE MRU. Breath-hold 3D MRU with GRASE may provide a feasible evaluation of urinary tract dilation. Graphical abstract

The goal of functional renal imaging is to identify and quantitate irreversible renal damage and nephron loss, as well as potentially reversible hemodynamic changes. MR urography has evolved into a comprehensive evaluation of the urinary tract that combines anatomical imaging with functional evaluation in a single test without ionizing radiation. Quantitative functional MR imaging is based on dynamic contrast-enhanced MR acquisitions that provide progressive, visible enhancement of the renal parenchyma and urinary tract. The signal changes related to perfusion, concentration and excretion of the contrast agent can be evaluated using both quantitative and qualitative measures. Functional evaluation with MR has continued to improve as a result of significant technical advances allowing for faster image acquisition as well as the development of new tracer kinetic models of renal function. The most common indications for MR urography in children are the evaluation of congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract including hydronephrosis and renal malformations, and the identification of ectopic ureters in children with incontinence. In this paper, we review the underlying acquisition schemes and techniques used to generate quantitative functional parameters including the differential renal function (DRF), asymmetry index, mean transit time (MTT), signal intensity versus time curves as well as the calculation of individual kidney glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Visual inspection and semi-quantitative assessment using the renal transit time (RTT) and calyceal transit times (CTT) are fundamental to accurate diagnosis and are used as a basis for the interpretation of the quantitative data. The importance of visual assessment of the images cannot be overstated when analyzing the quantitative measures of renal function.

A 55-year-old male presented to our emergency department with haematuria and abdominal pain. Investigations including a computed tomography (CT) scan revealed an intraluminal filling defect within the left collecting system, consistent in appearance with blood clot. With an initial working diagnosis of upper tract urothelial cell carcinoma, he was discharged with plans for an urgent cystoscopy and ureteroscopy. He subsequently represented with ongoing frank haematuria, anasarca, dropping haemoglobin and new right collecting system blood clot. Subsequent investigations showed that the patient had acquired haemophilia A resulting in the episodes of haematuria, highlighted after an elevated activated partial thromboplastic time prompted a thrombophilia screen. The patient was subsequently treated with factor eight inhibitor bypass activity, corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide.

Background Midureteral stenosis is very rare in children and can cause congenital hydronephrosis. We report our experience treating children with congenital midureteral stenosis at our center, focusing on the differences in preoperative diagnosis and treatment compared with other congenital obstructive uropathies. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 26 children diagnosed with congenital midureteral stenosis at our center between January 2007 and December 2020, such as preoperative examination methods, intraoperative conditions, and postoperative follow-up results. Results Of the 1625 children treated surgically for ureteral narrowing, only 26 (1.6%) were diagnosed with midureteral stenosis, including 15 infants and 11 children. Eighteen (69.2%) were boys, 13 (50%) were affected on the left side, and 23 (88.5%) had isolated ureteral stenosis. Overall, 13 (50%) of the children presented with prenatal hydronephrosis, and 13 (50%) presented with abdominal pain or a mass. All the children had undergone urinary ultrasound and intravenous urography preoperatively; the diagnostic rate of ultrasound was 92.3%. Only 7 (26.9%) children had undergone pyelography. All the children had undergone surgery. The ureteral stenotic segment was less than 1 cm long in 25 (96.2)% of the children. The mean follow-up duration was 22 months (range: 6–50 months). One child developed anastomotic strictures. Urinary tract obstruction was relieved in the other children without long-term complications. Conclusions Congenital midureteral stenosis is rare, accounting for 1.6% of all ureteral obstructions, and its diagnosis is crucial. Urinary ultrasound has a high diagnostic rate and should be the first choice for midureteral stenosis. Retrograde pyelography can be used when the diagnosis is difficult, but routine retrograde pyelography is not recommended. Congenital ureteral stenosis has a relatively short lesion range, largely within 1 cm. The treatment is mainly resection of the stenotic segment and end-to-end ureteral anastomosis, with a good prognosis.

The genitourinary region is one of the most common sites of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (TB) involvement. The imaging features of genitourinary TB are protean and can mimic other entities, including malignancy, and pose a diagnostic dilemma. Hematogenous seeding and lymphatic spread of mycobacteria from pulmonary, tonsillar, and nodal TB are implicated in the pathogenesis of genitourinary TB. In addition, contiguous extension from the urinary tract and sexual transmission are described as sources of genital TB. Genitourinary TB can be indolent and results in nonspecific signs and symptoms; thus, imaging has a vital role in the working diagnosis for these cases. Classic uroradiologic signs of genitourinary TB are primarily described from the era of intravenous urography and conventional radiography. Now, CT, CT urography, MRI, and US are used in the diagnosis and management. Familiarity with the imaging features of genitourinary TB may help guide the diagnosis and, in turn, lead to timely management. US has a vital role in the evaluation of scrotal and female genital TB. MRI offers superior soft-tissue contrast resolution and excellent depiction of anatomic detail. The various imaging manifestations of genitourinary TB are highlighted. ©RSNA, 2021.

OBJECTIVE To present long-term outcome of Yang-Monti ileal ureter, with a focus on patients with mild/moderate loss of kidney function and solitary kidney. PATIENTS AND METHODS Between March 2001 and December 2019, Yang-Monti ileal ureter was performed on 36 patients with ureteric defects and median age 46.5 years. Of these, 4, 14, 15 and 3 patients had stage 1, stage 2, stage 3a and stage 4a chronic kidney disease, respectively; 6 had solitary kidney. Patients were regularly followed for complications, morphological, and functional outcome. RESULTS Ureteric stricture etiology was iatrogenic (16), Bilharzial (7), tuberculous (4), retroperitoneal fibrosis (5), malignancy (3), and gunshot injury (1). The median (range) ureteric defect length was 11 (8-16) cm. Four grade 1/2 postoperative Clavien-Dindo complications were noted. Median follow-up was 68 months (range 12-215). Intestinal obstruction developed in 1 patient and urinary tract infection in 10. At last follow-up, serum creatinine, split renographic clearance, and estimated glomerular filtration rate showed significant improvement compared to preoperative values, in the whole series, in cases with chronic kidney disease (stages 2, 3a and 3b) and solitary kidney. Four cases with chronic kidney disease (stage 3) showed deterioration of the kidney function parameters. Magnetic resonance urography showed improvement of hydronephrosis in most patients. No metabolic complications were noted. CONCLUSION Yang-Monti Ileal ureter is durable and effective in improving kidney function with few complications. It can be safely used in cases of mild/moderate kidney function loss and solitary kidney. A threshold eGFR

Background To assess the inter-observer and intra-observer reliability of the magnetic resonance urography (MRU)—upper urinary tract dilation (UUTD) grading system. Methods A total of 40 patients with a diagnosis of NB were enrolled in this study. The images were assembled in an electronic presentation randomly. The presentations were reviewed and graded by 4 junior and 4 senior urologists. One week later, the images were randomized again and reassessed. The inter-observer reliability was estimated by Kendall’s coefficient of concordance and intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), and the intra-observer reliability was estimated by weighted Cohen’s kappa. Results The inter-observer reliability strength was excellent for all urologists, with the ICC value of 0.939 (0.908–0.963) and Kendall’s W value of 0.967. The highest agreement was shown in Grade 4 at 92.50%, and the lowest in Grade 2 at 82.14%. All disagreements were within one grade of difference. Moreover, the Intra-observer reliability was excellent, with the weighted kappa value ranging from 0.904 to 0.954. Conclusions The inter-observer and intra-observer reliability of this novel MRU-UUTD grading system is confirmed, providing adequate evidence for broader clinical application.

Background The incidence of ectopic kidneys is 1:12,000 clinically and 1:900 postmortem. Patients with pelvic mal-rotated kidneys are more susceptible to recurrent urinary tract infections, recurrent renal stones, and renal injury. Fusion of the kidney lower poles is relatively common compared to other types of renal anomalies. Case presentation We present the case of a 36-year-old Sudanese female patient who presented with a long history of recurrent urinary tract infections unresponsive to antibiotics. Ultrasound scan revealed bilateral pelvic kidneys. Computed tomography (CT) urography confirmed bilateral ectopic fused kidneys, with the left kidney mal-rotated (renal pelvis facing upwards and laterally). Kidney infection secondary to vesicoureteral reflux was diagnosed. Antibiotics were prescribed according to culture and sensitivity. The patient responded well to ciprofloxacin. Conclusion A history of recurrent urinary tract infections without an apparent cause is highly suggestive of renal anomaly and should be investigated expediently. Ultrasonography or CT imaging may be utilized to aid in diagnosis. Early recognition may help prevent the high risk of end-stage renal failure associated with anomalies.

Upper urinary tract obstructions (UTOs) are blockages that inhibit the flow of urine through its normal course, leading to impaired kidney function. Imaging plays a significant role in the initial diagnosis of UTO, with anatomic imaging (primarily ultrasound (US) and non-contrast computed tomography (CT)) serving as screening tools for the detection of the dilation of the urinary collecting systems (i.e., hydronephrosis). Whether hydronephrosis represents UTO or a non-obstructive process is determined by functional imaging (typically nuclear medicine renal scintigraphy). If these exams reveal evidence of UTO but no discernable source, multiphase contrast enhanced CT urography and/or dynamic contrast enhanced MR urography (DCE-MRU) may be performed to delineate a cause. These are often performed in conjunction with direct ureteroscopic evaluation. While contrast-enhanced CT currently predominates, it can induce renal injury due to contrast induced nephropathy (CIN), subject patients to ionizing radiation and is limited in quantifying renal function (traditionally assessed by renal scintigraphy) and establishing the extent to which hydronephrosis is due to functional obstruction. Traditional MRI is similarly limited in its ability to quantify function. DCE-MRU presents concerns regarding nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), although decreased with newer gadolinium-based contrast agents, and regarding cumulative gadolinium deposition in the basal ganglia. DCE-MR CEST urography is a promising alternative, employing new MRI contrast agents and imaging schemes and allowing for concurrent assessment of renal anatomy and functional parameters. In this review we highlight clinical challenges in the diagnosis and management of UTO, identify key advances in imaging agents and techniques for DCE-MR CEST urography and provide perspective on how this technique may evolve in clinical importance.

We report the reliability of computerized tomography urography and ureteroscopy in the diagnosis and management of upper tract urothelial carcinoma.From 2015 to November 2018 we prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed 244 cases of ureteroscopy with available preoperative computerized tomography urography. Computerized tomography urography was categorized as positive, suspicious, unlikely and negative. Correspondence between imaging, ureteroscopy and histology was analyzed. The therapeutic indication, based on 2020 EAU Guidelines and patient clinical data, was recorded before and after ureteroscopy. Cohen's Kappa was used for agreement analysis. Logistic regression was used for prediction of positive ureteroscopy.Ureteroscopy was positive for upper tract urothelial carcinoma in 107/115 (93%), 48/77 (62.3%), 15/27 (55.6%) and 12/25 (48%) cases with positive, suspicious, unlikely and negative computerized tomography urography, respectively. On cytohistology the result was confirmed in 164/182 (90.1%) cases. The positive predictive value of a filling defect, stenosis, thickening and hydronephrosis on computerized tomography urography was 87.7% (121/138 cases), 65.6% (21/32), 69.6% (64/92) and 79.7% (59/74), respectively. On multivariate analysis a filling defect (95% CI 2.76-11.5, OR 5.63, p0.0001) or hydronephrosis (1.04-6.18, OR 2.52, p=0.04) was associated with ureteroscopy outcome. Among cases with positive computerized tomography urography and ureteroscopy, the lesions differed in dimensions (20/107), number (14/107) and site (11/107), for a total of 45/107 (42.1%) cases. The indication of elective treatment changed after ureteroscopy in 37/76 (48.1%) cases (Kappa=0.31), as 17/28 (60.7%), 11/20 (55%) and 11/28 (39.2%) indications were confirmed for endoscopic management, ureterectomy and nephroureterectomy, respectively.The complementary use of computerized tomography urography and ureteroscopy in the diagnostic workup of upper tract urothelial carcinoma should be evaluated.

Background Several approaches for urethral catheterization after the failure of initial urethral catheterization have been introduced. However, standard procedures regarding what should be done after failed conventional urethral catheterization have been not established. Therefore, we investigated the clinical efficacy of retrograde urethrography (RGU)-assisted urethral catheterization after failed conventional urethral catheterization. Methods Between July 2015 and July 2018, 136 patients who underwent RGU-assisted urethral catheterization after failed conventional urethral catheterization were included in this retrospective study. Patients’ clinical data, such as age, catheterization site, and previous history of urologic operations, were collected and assessed via chart review. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify predictive factors for the failure of this procedure. Results Of the 136 patients, 94 (69.1%) experienced successful RGU-assisted urethral catheterization. Having a previous history of urologic operations, such as urethrotomy and transurethral prostatectomy, was identified as an independent predictive factor for the failure of RGU-assisted urethral catheterization (odds ratio = 9.453, 95% confidence interval = 2.703–33.063, p Conclusions RGU-assisted urethral catheterization can be one of the modalities for providing successful catheterization after failed conventional urethral catheterization. We believe that RGU-assisted urethral catheterization can be an effective procedure if patients have no previous history of urologic operations, such as urethrotomy and transurethral prostatectomy. Trial registration Soonchunhyang university institutional review board approval (No. 2018-08-021).

The diagnostics and treatment of pediatric urology patients in the clinical routine can be extremely challenging. In comparison to adult patients, congenital diseases, more time consuming examinations and limited options in addition to the parents' expectations must be taken into account in the diagnostic work up. In this first of two parts we will delve into ultrasound diagnostics as the cornerstone in the diagnostic pathway of children with hydronephrosis ans take a closer look on contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). Conventional voiding cystourethrography still plays a major role in the diagnostic pathway of vesicoureteric reflux and will be treated in this article. Computed tomography should only be considered in pediatric patients in rare cases, always taking radiation into critical account. Magnetic resonance imaging provides an excellent anatomical overview without exposing the child to unnecessary radiation. This article provides an overview on the diagnostic imaging studies in pediatric urology and brings tips for the diagnostic evaluation.Die Diagnostik und die Therapie von kinderurologischen Patienten und Patientinnen können im klinischen Alltag äußerst herausfordernd sein. Im Vergleich zu erwachsenen Patienten stehen bei der Diagnostik kongenitaler Erkrankungen anspruchsvollere Untersuchungen, erhöhter Zeitaufwand und limitierte Optionen neben einer Erwartungshaltung der Eltern des Kindes im Vordergrund. Die genaue Kenntnis der diagnostischen Möglichkeiten in Verbindung mit der richtigen Indikationsstellung ist hier essenziell. Dieser erste von zwei Beitragsteilen widmet sich zum Einen der Sonographie als primärer Standarduntersuchungsmethode in der Kinderurologie und geht im speziellen auf das contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) ein. Das konventionelle Röntgenunterstützte Miktionszystourethrographie ist weiterhin fester Bestandteil des Diagnosealgorithmus des vesikoureterorenalen Refluxes und wird in dieser Arbeit eingängig behandelt. Der Einsatz der CT beschränkt sich aufgrund der Strahlenexposition in der Kinderurologie auf die Abklärung des schweren Polytraumas, und in Ausnahmefällen auf die Tumor- bzw. Steindiagnostik. Die Magnetresonanztomographie ermöglicht eine hervorragende anatomische Beurteilung des gesamten Urogenitaltraktes, ohne das Kind einer unnötigen Strahlenexposition auszusetzen. Diese Fortbildungseinheit gibt Ihnen eine aktuelle Übersicht und bietet einige Tipps und Tricks in der kinderurologischen Diagnostik.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a standard procedure for large renal stones. Contrast (traditionally) as well as air is being used to delineate pelvi-calyceal system (PCS) to perform initial puncture. Contrast, when used has certain disadvantages including poor differentiation of anterior and posterior calyces. In this interim analysis of 122 patients of a prospective study subjects were stratified in two groups: in group 1, contrast was used while in group 2, air was used to delineate PCS. Out of 122,103 patients underwent puncture by contrast or air exclusively while 19 patients required mix of contrast and air (14 patients failed puncture using contrast while 5 using air). Mean dosage of radiation exposure (8.43 vs. 14.26 mGy), duration of radiation exposure (0.66 vs. 1.02 min), access time (3.72 vs. 5.84 min), were less in group 2 as compared to group 1. 84.5% of patients underwent puncture in single attempt in group 2 as compared to 56.25% in group 1. Five patients had post-operative fever and one had trans-pleural tract dilation. Complete stone clearance was seen in 94.8% of patients using air to only 75% of patients using contrast. Conclusion: Air pyelogram is a feasible, safe, cost effective and efficient access alternative to contrast pyelogram and in difficult situation a mixture of both is better than using one.

Background: Urinary stones affect 8%–15% of the world population. In Nigeria, contemporary reports have shown that the incidence of urinary stones is rising. The distal ureter has been described as the most common location of ureteric stones. This study seeks to review our experience in the ureteroscopic management of distal ureteric stones with a view to appraising the stone clearance rate and the complications seen in our patients. Patients and Methods: This descriptive study reviewed the record of 21 patients, who had semirigid ureteroscopy and pneumatic lithotripsy for distal ureteric stone between October 2015 and September 2018. All patients had computed tomography urography preoperatively to locate the stone. Data on patients' demographics, indication for the surgery, location and size of stone, preoperative double-J (DJ) placement, postoperative DJ stent placement, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and status of stone clearance were retrieved and subjected to statistical analysis. Results: The mean age of the patients was 37.95 ± 11.09 (range, 21–67) years. The mean stone size was 8.06 ± 2.87 mm with a range of 4.8 mm–15.0 mm. Out of the 21 patients, 20 (95.2%) had the procedure for recurrent ureteric colic and 1 (48%) was for hematuria. Four (19.0%) patients had DJ stent preoperatively, whereas 17 (81.0%) patients did not have. Fourteen (66.7%) patients had intraoperative ureteric dilatation. Postoperative DJ stent was placed in 17 (81.0%) patients, whereas 4 (19.0%) patients did not have. Three (14.3%) patients had mucosal flap, 6 (14.3%) had mucosal abrasion, 2 (9.5%) had bleeding, 1 (4.8%) patient had transient hematuria postoperatively, and 2 (9.5%) patients had urinary tract infection. Nineteen (90.5%) patients had complete clearance in a single surgery. Two (9.5%) patients had symptomatic residual fragments that required repeat ureteroscopy. Conclusion: Our study has shown that ureteroscopy is a useful and safe technique in the removal of stones in distal ureter.

Multidetector computed tomographic urography (MDCTU) is not yet sufficient to be used in the clinical staging of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). This study aimed to compare the diagnostic accuracy of MDCTU T stage classification and pathologic T staging for UTUC. We retrospectively evaluated 125 patients with UTUC who underwent preoperative MDCTU. A single radiologist classified the MDCTU pattern of the tumors as either low or advanced T stage for localized or locally advanced tumors, respectively. The diagnostic values of MDCTU for locally advanced tumors and the kappa agreement between MDCTU and pathologic T stage were investigated. Among 85 pathologic low T stage (Ta–T2) tumors, 71 low T stage tumors were correctly detected by MDCTU, while 30 out of 40 advanced T stage (T3–T4) tumors were correctly diagnosed by MDCTU. MDCTU led to under-staging in 8% (10/125) tumors and over-staging in 11.2% (14/125) tumors. Therefore, the overall accuracy of MDCTU in the diagnosis of low and advanced T stage tumors was 80.8% (101/125 patients). The sensitivity for advanced T stage tumors was 75% (30/40), the specificity was 83.5% (71/85), and the positive and negative predictive values were 68.1% (30/44) and 87.6% (71/81), respectively. The kappa agreement value between the MDCTU T stage and pathologic T stage was 0.57 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.42–0.72), which was statistically significant (P = 0.001). MDCTU T stage classification may be relatively accurate for the detection and staging of UTUC correspondence with a pathologic stage.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance urography (MRU) and determine its value for detecting ureteric obstruction. METHODS: The electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane library, were systematically searched for studies published throughout September 2018. The summary of sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves was assessed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of MRU. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on the mean age of the included patients (adults or children). RESULTS: Eight studies with a total of 594 patients were included. The summary of the sensitivity and specificity of MRU for diagnosing ureteric obstruction was 0.94 and 0.87, respectively. Furthermore, the pooled PLR and NLR were 7.33 and 0.07, respectively. The DOR of MRU for detecting ureteric obstruction was 95.12. In addition, the summary of the area under the ROC of MRU was 0.96. Finally, the specificity, PLR and area under the ROC of MRU for diagnosing ureteric obstruction in adults were higher than children, while the sensitivity of MRU in adults was lower than children. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggested a relatively high diagnostic value of MRU for detecting ureteric obstruction. Moreover, the diagnostic accuracy of MRU in adults was higher than in children. KEY MESSAGE: Magnetic resonance urography (MRU) in detecting ureteric obstruction has relatively better sensitivity, specificity, PLR, NLR, DOR and AUC. The diagnostic value, including specificity, PLR and AUC of MRU in adults, was higher than in children, while the sensitivity of MRU in adults was lower than in children.

Purpose: To investigate the association between preoperative retrograde pyelography (RGP), conducted to evaluate upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC), and intravesical recurrence (IVR) after radical nephroureterectomy (RNU). Materials and Methods: Of 114 patients that underwent RNU, 72 patients without preoperative ureteroscopy and a history of bladder tumor were selectively enrolled. Variables associated with IVR were identified. Results: RGP was performed at a mean duration of 24.9 days prior to RNU in 41 (56.1%) of study subjects. During the mean follow-up period of 64.5 months, IVRs were identified in 32 (44.4%) patients at 22.3±18.8 (mean±SD) months after RNU. Despite similar tumor characteristics in the RGP and non-RGP groups, the incidence of IVR was considerably higher in the RGP group (63.4%) than in the non-RGP group (19.4%, p pT2; 53.1% vs. 17.5%), preoperative hemoglobin (12.8±1.36 vs. 13.9±1.65), preoperative creatinine (1.29±0.32 vs. 1.11±0.22), and preoperative RGP (81.3% vs. 37.5%), respectively. Multivariate Cox regression model showed that tumor location (p=0.020, HR=2.742), preoperative creatinine level (p=0.004, HR=6.351), and preoperative RGP (p=0.045, HR=3.134) independently predicted IVR. Conclusion: Given the limitations of retrospective single-center series, performance of RGP before RNU was shown to have a negative effect on IVR after surgery.

Transurethral endoscopic incision is an established treatment option for management of obstructing ureterocele. It can be performed using monopolar electrocautery or holmium laser as an energy source. The present study was carried out to evaluate outcomes of transurethral ureterocele incision (TUI) by two different energy sources, i.e., monopolar electrocautery versus holmium laser. A retrospective review of the data of all patients who underwent endoscopic TUI from 2007-2017 was performed. Preoperative clinical, biochemical, and radiological characteristics and operative parameters were reviewed and compared between the two groups. Associated stone in the ureterocele was fragmented using pneumatic lithotripter or Mauermeyer stone punch forceps in the electrocautery group and holmium laser in the laser group. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 21.0. Chi-squared test was used for categorical/dichotomous variables. Unpaired t test was used for continuous variables. Out of total 44 patients, 28 patients had duplex system ureterocele and 16 patients had single system ureterocele. Mean age was 18.5 + 7.4 years (range 14-26 years). Six patients had associated stones in the ureterocele. Most common presentation was flank pain followed by urinary infections and bladder outlet obstruction. Preoperative vesico-ureteric reflux was seen in 18% patients. Monopolar TUI was performed in 20 patients and laser-TUI in 24 patients. Three patients had associated stone in ureterocele in each group. Fragmentation of stone was successfully done with holmium laser without changing the instrument and with less associated surgical morbidity in the laser group. Postoperative successful decompression was evident in 38 (90%) patients. Renal parenchyma thickness was improved on ultrasound scan and renal scan showed non-obstructed system in all patients at follow-up. Both laser and monopolar incision have similar efficacy in decompressing the ureterocele in long-term follow-up. However, laser has added advantage of stone lithotripsy with the same instruments with lesser morbidity and lower incidence of persistent reflux.

We experienced an extremely rare case of ureteral sextuplication with a blind-ending ureter originating from the upper pole. The patient had 6 separate ureters and 6 renal pelvises with 1 ureteral orifice on the left. The left kidney was hypoplastic and its differential function was 6.5%. The patient underwent definitive surgical treatment to repair the anomaly (ureteroureterostomy and reimplantation of the formed ureter). The surgery was successful and the postoperative course was uneventful. We herein report the first such case in the English-language literature and discuss the etiology of this ureteral anomaly, the method of diagnostic imaging, and the treatment.

Bladder volume at the onset of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is an important prognostic indicator of spontaneous resolution and the risk of pyelonephritis. We aim to determine whether pediatric urologists and pediatric radiologists can accurately estimate the timing of reflux by examining voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) images without prior knowledge of the instilled contrast volume. Total bladder volume and the volume at the time of reflux were collected from VCUG reports to determine the volume at the onset of VUR. Thirty-nine patients were sorted into three groups: early-/mid-filling reflux, late-filling and voiding only. Thirty-nine images were shown to three pediatric urologists and two pediatric radiologists in a blinded fashion and they were then asked to estimate VUR timing based on the above categories. A weighted kappa statistic was calculated to assess rater agreement with the gold standard volume-based report of VUR timing. The mean patient age at VCUG was 3.1±2.9 months, the median VUR was grade 3, and 20 patients were female. Overall agreement among all five raters was moderate (k=0.43, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.36–0.50). Individual agreement between rater and gold standard was slight to moderate with kappa values ranging from 0.13 to 0.43. Pediatric radiologists and urologists are unable to accurately and reliably characterize VUR timing on fluoroscopic VCUG. These findings support the recently published American Academy of Pediatrics protocol recommending the routine recording of bladder volume at the onset of VUR as a standard component of all VCUGs to assist in a more accurate assessment of the likelihood of resolution and risk of recurrent urinary tract infections.

Purpose: The current study evaluated the prevalence of urologic disease among patients with hematuria referred for computerized tomography (CT) urography to determine which patients require investigation with CT urography. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed radiology reports of 1046 CT urograms performed for the indication of microscopic (43.7%) or gross hematuria (56.3%). Urological findings were categorized as negative, benign, or suspicious (pathologically confirmed) for malignancy. Results: Of 1046 CT urograms performed, 53.5% were negative, 36.4% were benign, and 10% were suspicious for malignancy. The most common benign finding was urolithiasis (22.3%). Overall, urinary tract malignancies were present in 3.6% of patients, and the rate was significantly higher ( P < .001) for gross (5.8%) than microscopic hematuria (0.9%). CT urography identified 0.6% patients with upper urinary tract malignancies; the malignancy rate was significantly higher ( P = .038) for gross (1%) than microscopic hematuria (0%), and no significant sex ( P = 1.00; male = 0.6%, female = 0.6%) or age ( P = .600; < 50 years = 0%, ≥ 50 years = 0.7%) differences were observed. Logistic regression revealed that being male was associated with gross hematuria (odds ratio [OR] = 2.92), and that both age and gross hematuria (ORs = 1.06 and 5.13, respectively) were associated with malignancy. Conclusions: CT urography found no upper urinary tract malignancies in 99.4% of patients presenting with hematuria, including all patients with microscopic hematuria and those with gross hematuria

Antegrade pyelography (APG) is a useful modality for imaging the upper urinary tract. Little scientific evidence exists concerning optimal pressure while performing an APG. Methods of implementation seem to vary between hospitals as no specific guideline exists. Our aim was to describe current practice patterns in pre-procedural prophylaxis, describe methods of contrast administration, and estimate rate of complications during APG as reported by urologist, in order to stimulate discussion on defining guidelines. A digital questionnaire with 16 questions concerning APG was set out among EAU members via an ESUI twitter link. Fifty urologists from different centers responded. Outcomes were use of antibiotics, used pressure in upper urinary tract, and estimated urosepsis prevalence. Percentages and confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated. Forty-two percent (95% CI 30–56) of respondents stated that antibiotic prophylaxis was always administered. Fifty-two percent (95% CI 38–65) of urologists sometimes performed a pre-procedural culture. Seventy percent (95% CI 56–81) indicated that administration of contrast during APG was performed using a syringe. A local guideline was only used in 8% of cases (95% CI 2.8–17.9) The self-estimated average percentage of urosepsis as a result of performing an APG was mentioned to be 4% (range 0–20%). Despite a considerable risk of urosepsis, no guideline or consensus exists on how to perform APG. This is urgently needed in order to prevent complications. Low response rate is a major limitation of these findings.

A case of acute kidney injury due to reflex anuria that was caused by retrograde pyelography and required temporary hemodialysis is reported. An 83-year-old Japanese woman presented with anuria 2 days after undergoing bilateral retrograde pyelography for the investigation of gross hematuria. Retrograde pyelography showed no apparent abnormality, such as malignancy or urolithiasis, but pyelorenal extravasation of contrast medium was remarkable. Her anuria improved promptly after hemodialysis, allowing her treatment to conclude with only one hemodialysis session, and a normal renal function was restored with no sequelae. The details of this case and a review of the relevant literature are presented.

BACKGROUND Calyceal diverticula outpouchings that occur rarely in the upper collecting system of the kidney and is often difficult to detect. In this study, we present two cases of calyceal diverticula and discuss their clinical characteristics and radiologic features. PATIENTS AND METHODS In the presented two cases, we applied several imaging examinations, including delayed intravenous pyelography, retrograde pyelography and axial computerized tomographic (CT) scanning of the kidneys with and without contrast. Serum creatinine levels in fluid withdrawn from the diverticula were found to be significantly higher than the simultaneous serum creatinine levels. Intravenous injection of methylene blue through a ureteral catheter was also aided in the diagnosis. Calyceal diverticulum neck dilatation was performed through a percutaneous nephroscope.ResultsThe two cases were diagnosed preoperatively and the operation was successful performed. The nephrostomy tube was removed seven days after surgery without complications. CT scans of the kidney after six months showed that the size of the calyceal diverticulum of two patients were considerably smaller than pre-surgery. There were no reports of pain in the lumbar region or other discomfort. COMMENTS Diagnosis of calyceal diverticulum mainly depend on a variety of imaging examinations, including the delayed intravenous pyelography, retrograde pyelography, and kidney CT plain scan plus enhanced scan. If the patient cannot be diagnosed by above methods, cyst fluid can be aspirated percutaneously to measure the preoperative creatinine level. If it is significantly higher than the serum creatinine level, the cyst fluid is considered urine, which can assist in the diagnosis of calyceal diverticulum. A ureteral catheter should also be inserted before operation namely, intravenous injection of methylene blue through a ureteral catheter is helpful for diagnosis. The choice of surgical treatment is based on the size and location of calyceal diverticulum and clinical manifestations.

Object. CT imaging can be processed by computer, and the absorption coefficient of each voxel to X-ray can be obtained by calculation, which can effectively improve the efficiency of surgery. Traditional treatment is based on the patient’s age, fertility requirements, and general conditions, often using a comprehensive treatment plan with surgery and radiotherapy as the mainstay, supplemented by chemotherapy, which has great limitations and side effects, in order to alleviate the loss of various body functions, especially the urinary tract during cervical cancer surgery. Methods. We grouped the patients who had undergone cervical cancer surgery in a hospital in this article and compared the nanodrug carrier system under CT imaging with traditional laparoscopy. The postoperative physical parameters of surgical patients are collected from cervical cancer patients of different degrees, and the parameters and prognostic health of patients after different operations are compared. Results. The results of the study show that the postoperative patient’s body parameters of the nanodrug delivery system under the CT imaging technology used in this article are better than those of the traditional surgery group, and the average intraoperative blood loss is about 20% less than that of the traditional surgery. Postoperative complications occur. The situation is even lower, more than 30% lower than traditional surgery. Conclusion. This shows that the operation of the nanodrug delivery system based on CT imaging technology has broken through some of the limitations of the development of laparoscopic technology and has played an important role in the surgical treatment of cervical cancer.

Background To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of computed tomography-urography (CTU) to rule out urinary bladder cancer (UBC) and whether patients thereby could omit cystoscopy. Methods All patients evaluated for macroscopic hematuria with CTU with cortico-medullary phase (CMP) and cystoscopy at our institute between 1st November 2016 and 31st December 2019 were included. From this study cohort a study group consisting of all UBC patients and a control group of 113 patients randomly selected from all patients in the study cohort without UBC. Two radiologists blinded to all clinical data reviewed the CTUs independently. CTUs were categorized as positive, negative or indeterminate. Diagnostic accuracy and proportion of potential omittable cystoscopies were calculated for the study cohort by generalizing the results from the study group. Results The study cohort consisted of 2195 patients, 297 of which were in the study group (UBC group, n = 207 and control group, n = 90). Inter-rater reliability was high (κ 0.84). Evaluation of CTUs showed that 174 patients were assesessed as positive (showing UBC), 46 patients as indeterminate (not showing UBC but with limited quality of CTU), and 77 patients as negative (not showing UBC with good quality of CTU). False negative rate was 0.07 (95%, CI 0.04–0.12), false positive rate was 0.01 (95% CI 0.0–0.07) and negative predictive value was 0.99 (95% CI 0.92–1.0). The area under the curve was 0.93 (95% CI 0.90–0.96). Only 2.9% (3/102) with high-risk tumors and 11% (12/105) with low- or intermediate-risk tumors had a false negative CTU. Cystoscopy could potentially have been omitted in 57% (1260/2195) of all evaluations. Conclusions CTU with CMP can exclude UBC with high accuracy. In case of negative CTU, it might be reasonable to omit cystoscopy, but future confirmative studies with possibly refined technique are needed.

Congenital abnormalities of the kidney and urinary tract include a wide range of malformations ranging from asymptomatic to life-threatening conditions. Although pediatric urogenital system imaging is based on the use of US (pre- and postnatal), voiding cystourethrography and scintigraphic study, magnetic resonance (MR) urography plays a fundamental role in the classification and management of congenital abnormalities of the kidney and urinary tract, giving an overview of the different clinical pictures, thanks to its panoramicity and high anatomical detail. In fact the anomalies of the urinary tract are phenotypically variable because they can affect simultaneously several segments of different embryonic derivation, with complex clinical pictures; they can appear both as isolated phenotypes or as complex malformative conditions, involving renal parenchyma, collecting system and bladder. A deep knowledge of this complex embryogenesis and its possible phenotypic patterns allows a correct interpretation of MR urography images. We describe the embryology and pathophysiology of congenital abnormalities of the kidney and urinary tract as well as MR urography technique and findings. Congenital abnormalities of the kidney and urinary tract are classified into four groups: (1) obstruction (proximal, middle and distal), (2) budding with respect to the Wolffian duct (site and number of ureter), (3) ascent and rotation (ectopia, malrotation and fusion of kidney) and (4) anomaly of metanephric differentiation (dysplasia, megapolicalycosis).

Objective. To explore the application value of the X-ray digital tomographic fusion technique in the diagnosis of urinary system diseases. Methods. 500 patients with suspected urinary diseases in our hospital were examined by three methods: X-ray digital tomographic fusion imaging (DTS), intravenous pyelography (IVP), and abdominal plain film (KUB), and the image quality before and after tomographic fusion was objectively evaluated. The image quality could be divided into three grades: excellent, good, and poor. Results. The image excellent rate of DTS (88%) was higher than that of IVP (27.5%). The sensitivity of DTS in the diagnosis of renal cyst and space occupying of the bladder was higher than that of IVP ( P < 0.05 ). The accuracy rate of DTS in the diagnosis of urinary calculi was 93.33%, higher than 63.3% of KUB ( P < 0.001 ). The accuracy rate of DTS in the diagnosis of ureteral stricture was 90%, higher than 65% of IVP ( P = 0.03 ). The accuracy of DTS in the diagnosis of hydronephrosis was higher than that of IVP and KUB ( P < 0.05 ). Conclusion. In the examination of urinary system-related diseases, high-definition images can be obtained by timely using sectional fusion technology. Compared with conventional IVP, space occupying lesions such as the bladder and kidney can be displayed more clearly with the help of the tomographic fusion technique, which is helpful to improve the possibility of finding lesions and is of great significance in clinical application.

Objective CT-Urography combined with 3D printing technology, digital design, construction of individualized PCNL puncture guides, and preliminary analyze their efficacy, safety puncture positioning for PCNL. Methods Twenty-two patients with renal calculi were randomly selected at the affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University during 2017–2018. We randomly divided the patients into two groups: in 10 experimental groups, we used our 3D printing personalized percutaneous puncture guide access plate for PCNL, and in the control group, 12 patients with standard USG guide PCNL. The accuracy of puncture position, puncture time, and intraoperative blood loss was compared. Results In the experimental group, 10 patients with 3D printing personalized percutaneous puncture guide access plate. The puncture needle was accessed through the guide plate and verified by the color Doppler. The single puncture, needle position, and depth success rate were 100.00% (10/10). The angles were consistent with the preoperative design. In the control group, 12 patients via USG guided PCNL success rate was 75.00% (9/12). The puncture time and amount of hemorrhage was (7.78 ± 0.94) min and (49.31 ± 6.43) mL, and (9.04 ± 1.09) min and (60.08 ± 12.18) mL, respectively. The above data of the two groups were statistically significant (P Conclusion 3D printing personalized percutaneous nephrolithotomy guide plate for PCNL can improve PCNL renal puncture channel positioning accuracy, shorten puncture time, reduce intraoperative blood loss, bleeding-related complications and provide a new method for PCNL renal puncture positioning, which is worthy of further clinical exploration.

Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) is one of minimally invasive procedures for pediatric upper urinary stones. However, a RIRS predictive system for children to evaluate postoperative stone free rate (SFR) is still unavailable.The aim of this study is to validate the efficacy and reliability of different RIRS scoring systems for children.We collected clinical data of 137 pediatric patients treated with RIRS in our center between 2014 and 2021. All the predictors were acquired by preoperative non-contrast CT or CT urography. Receiver Operative Curve (ROC) and Area Under Curve (AUC) were showed to compare the predictive power of different models.A total of 162 RIRS procedures were performed for these 137 pediatric patients. Median surgical duration, irrigation volume and hospitalization were 30 (20, 40) min, 500 (300, 1000) ml and 6 (4, 7) days, respectively. Overall SFR and complication rate was 79.6% (129/162) and 29.2% (40/137), respectively. Significant difference was detected between non-stone free group and stone free group in terms of stone complexity (p 0.001), cumulative stone sizes [2.3 (2.0, 3.5) cm vs. 1.5 (1.0, 2.0) cm, p 0.001], RUS groups (p 0.001), S-ReSC groups (p 0.001) and RIRS nomogram score [10 (8, 12) vs. 23 (18, 25), p 0.001]. Among them, RIRS nomogram presented with the maximum AUC values in comparison with the other two systems (RUS: 0.944 vs. 0.874, p = 0.001; S-ReSC: 0.944 vs. 0.808, p 0.001).We reported the largest sample size of pediatric patients treated with RIRS in our center. Similar with previous studies, RIRS is an efficacious and safe option for pediatric patients. RIRS nomogram showed the best predictive outcome due to the inclusion of multiple parameters, but an innovative predictive system based on pediatric clinical data is warranted in the future.Among the three scoring systems, RIRS nomogram showed the most optimal predictive power of postoperative SFR for pediatric patients.

Continent diversion with orthotopic neobladder is the most upcoming form of urinary diversion postradical cystectomy. This allows patients to void through the native urethra preserving the maximal quality of life. These patients with greater life expectancies increasingly present with a wide range of late complications, which also include local recurrences involving neobladder. Such presentations on surveillance scans can be challenging for radiologists unfamiliar with expected post-surgical anatomy and usual sites of local recurrences. Tumour in neobladder, although rare, has predilection concerning specific sites of involvement and few distinct histological types. Major subtypes of such recurrences with corresponding radiological features on multimodality imaging have been discussed in this article. Management of such cases with revision of diversions is challenging, and surgeons expect a meticulous read of such scans before contemplating pelvic clearance and secondary diversions. This pictorial review aims to appraise the literature related to various primary and secondary types of tumours involving reservoir and anastomotic sites in an orthotopic neobladder, their relative incidences and illustrate salient imaging points with case examples.

Conjoined twins are a rare developmental anomaly with a reported prevalence of 1.47 per 100,000 births. We present an uncommon case of a parasitic ischiopagus tetrapus with a parasitic ischiopagus partial twin joined to the complete fetus at the level of the ischium diagnosed in utero by fetal MRI. The correct prenatal diagnosis led to birth by caesarean section. Prenatal MRI findings are presented and corroborated by postnatal imaging delineating the full extent and associated anomalies of this rare malformation. Differential diagnosis of duplicated lower extremities is discussed.

Objective: Patients with bladder cancer (BC) are at risk of developing upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). Therefore, CT urography is recommended for follow-up. To avoid intravenous contrast agents, retrograde pyelography (RPG) is an alternative. However, it is still unclear whether RPG increases the incidence of UTUC. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of RPG in the presence of BC on the risk of developing UTUC. Patients and Methods: Retrospectively analysing a total of 3,680 RPGs between 2009 and 2016, all patients with simultaneous BC (group 1) and those without synchronous BC (group 2) during RPG were compared. All patients were risk stratified according to the EORTC bladder calculator. In patients without BC during RPG, risk stratification was based on the worst prior tumour characteristics. Results: A total of 145 patients with a history of BC were analysed. Of these, 112 patients underwent RPG with simultaneous BC. UTUC developed in 6 of 112 patients (5.4%) and 58.9% (66/112) had high-risk BC according to the EORTC bladder calculator. In the control group, one out of 33 (3%) patients with metachronous high-risk BC developed UTUC. Conclusions: Using RPG in the presence of BC did not increase the risk of UTUC. Due to the predominant number of high-risk/high-grade tumours, individual tumour biology appears to be the primary driver for the development of UTUC.

INTRODUCTION The objective of this study was to compare the frequency and entity, in computed tomography (CT) urography, of streak artefacts on the urinary tract generated by two contrast agents with a different iodine concentration and osmolarity. METHODS Computed tomography scans including an excretory renal phase, performed on adult subjects in the period May-July 2020, were retrospectively evaluated in consensus by three expert radiologists, to detect any streak artefacts located in the urinary tract. Patients were administered either 1.6 mL/kg of Iodixanol 320 mgI/mL or 1.3 mL/kg of Iomeprol 400 mgI/mL. RESULTS In total, 144 CT scans were analysed, subdivided into two groups administered either Iodixanol (71/144 (49.3%) patients) or Iomeprol (73/144 (50.7%) patients). In 41% cases, no beam hardening artefacts were found; among these, 12/59 (20.3%) patients had received Iodixanol and 47/59 (79.7%) Iomeprol. In the Iodixanol group, the mean contrast density on the renal pelvis was 2565.6 HU and streak artefacts occurred in 59/71 cases (83.1%); in 33/59 (55.9%) cases, the artefacts were marked, and in 26/59 (44.1%) minimal. In the Iomeprol group, the mean contrast density on the renal pelvis was 1666 HU and streak artefacts occurred in 26/73 cases (35.6%); in 7/26 (27%) cases, the artefacts were marked and in 19/26 (73%) minimal. CONCLUSION The study data demonstrate a significant difference in the attenuation values of iodine urine in the excretory system between the Iodixanol and Iomeprol group. Iodixanol induced a higher frequency and burden of artefacts, compared to Iomeprol.

Background: Intravenous administration of iodinated contrast agents carries the risk of allergic reaction, yet this risk is unclear with administration into the urinary tract. We sought to evaluate...

Three-phase CT urography (CTU) is the gold standard for evaluating the upper urinary tract in patients with hematuria. We aimed to evaluate the accuracy of CTU for detecting upper urothelial cell carcinomas (UCC) in patients with hematuria and negative cystoscopy. Secondly, we aimed to determine the tumor visibility on each CTU phase. This retrospective study included all patients with hematuria referred to CTU after a negative cystoscopy during 2016 and 2017. The original CTU reports were dichotomized as negative or positive. All patient charts were reviewed after a minimum of 18-month follow-up in order to register missed cancers. The results of biopsies and clinical follow-up were used as the reference standard. Two reviewers retrospectively evaluated the tumor visibility of each CT sequence in all true-positive CTUs. We included 376 patients with hematuria who underwent CTU after a negative cystoscopy. Macroscopic and microscopic hematuria occurred in 87% (327) and 13% (49), respectively. The incidence of upper urothelial cell carcinoma was 1.9% (7), and the sensitivity of CTU was 100% (95% CI, 59–100), specificity was 99% (95% CI, 98–100), positive predictive value was 88% (95% CI, 47–99), and negative predictive value was 100% (95% CI, 99–100). The accuracy was 99% (95% CI, 90–100). All UCCs were visible on the nephrographic phase for both reviewers. CTU is highly accurate for detecting upper UCCs. All cases were seen on the nephrographic phase. This suggests that the CTU protocol can be simplified. • CT urography is highly accurate for detecting upper urothelial cell carcinomas. • All cancers were seen on the nephrographic phase. • All cancers were detected in patients with macroscopic hematuria.

Objective To model the risk of radiation-induced malignancy from computed tomography urography (CTU) in evaluation of gross hematuria and contrast this with the benefits of urinary tract cancer detection when compared to renal ultrasound. Methods A PUBMED-based literature search was performed to identify model inputs. Estimates of radiation-induced malignancy rates were obtained from the Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiation VII report with dose extrapolation using the linear no-threshold model. Results Male gender and age over 50 years were associated with a relative risk of upper tract malignancy of 2.04 and 2.95, respectively. The risk of upper tract malignancy missed by renal ultrasound ranged from 0.055% in females under 50 to 0.51% in males over 50. Risk of CTU-induced malignancy with associated loss of life expectancy ranged from 0.25% and 0.027 years in females under 50 to 0.08% and 0.0054 years in males over 50. For CTU to be superior to renal ultrasound, an undiagnosed upper tract malignancy would have to carry a loss of life expectancy of 49.2 years in females under 50, 13.4 years in males under 50, 2.6 years in females over 50, and 1.1 years in males over 50. Conclusion In low-risk patients, CTU for evaluation of gross hematuria may carry a significant risk of radiation-induced secondary malignancy relative to the diagnostic benefit offered over renal ultrasound