The Role of Radiological Imaging in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Urolithiasis: A Narrative Review

Abstract

The incidence and prevalence of urolithiasis have been increasing worldwide for the last several decades. This increase could be attributed to many factors, including missed cases of small stones, a sedentary lifestyle, a high BMI, a lack of physical activity, and poor dietary intake. In addition, the increased incidence of co-morbidities such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, infections, and multiple urinary tract surgeries could contribute significantly to the formation of urolithiasis. Radiology has a major role in diagnosing a variety of these stone types and can be used in planning management approaches, either as guidance or as a direct therapeutic method for stones. Because of the availability, safety, cost, and effectiveness of radiological imaging nowadays, urolithiasis is rarely missed; furthermore, the availability of radiological treatment options decreases the need for surgical intervention for urolithiasis, which minimizes hospital stay and surgical-related complications. This review aims to scope and analyze the role of radiological imaging modalities in reaching a diagnosis and planning treatment options for urolithiasis in different circumstances. Information was gathered from relevant peer-reviewed publications in PubMed and thereafter refined and summarized to provide a comprehensive review. The selected indexing terms included "radiological imaging modality," "treatment of urolithiasis," and "diagnosis of urolithiasis," among others.

Correlation Between Renal Calculus Disease and Iliac Bone Thickness on a Single Non-contrast CT Scan

“…The reverse occurs when there is a rise in calcium levels where calcitonin acts by similar mechanisms to bring it back to physiological levels (Figure 9). Although ultrasound is the first line of investigation for renal calculi due to its availability and lack of ionizing radiation, CT is considered the modality of choice for renal calculi as it offers information about the site and size of the calculi, associated complications, and other renal anomalies [16]. Causes of pain other than renal calculi can also be picked up.…”

Urolithiasis diagnosed with endovaginal ultrasound after vaginal prolapse repair surgery using mesh: A case report

“…According to recent literature updates, NCCT is considered the gold standard in detecting urolithiasis due to its high sensitivity and specificity of 99%, as well as the ease of performing the study. Additionally, NCCT can reveal indirect or secondary signs of obstruction, such as periureteral fluid collection, perihepatic fat stranding, or hydronephrosis [ 4 ]. However, it is important to note that this imaging procedure exposes the patient to radiation, which should be avoided, especially for individuals frequently affected by stones, pregnant women, and women of childbearing age.…”

“…Transvaginal sonography, with its higher frequencies and closer proximity of the transducer to the ureter, is particularly sensitive at detecting ureterolithiasis, more so than transabdominal sonography. Furthermore, when patients with distal ureteral stones receive conservative therapy, ultrasound has been found to be a good substitute for CT in follow-up imaging [ 4 ].…”