Renal colic is a common presenting problem in emergency departments where the focus of treatment is on prompt analgesia, limited supportive investigations and exclusion of other serious disorders. This review gives an overview of the pathophysiology of this condition and those aspects of its care that are specific to the emergency department. The role of narcotics and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs in treatment is examined, and the available imaging techniques are described and evaluated. Alternative diagnoses and indications for hospital admission are discussed.
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