Which of the following is the most sensitive imaging modality for the diagnosis of ureteric stones in a patient with acute colic?: (A) X-ray KUB region, (B) Abdominal ultrasound, (C) Non contrast CT scan of the abdomen, (D) Contrast enhanced CT scan of the abdomen
Answer is C. The most sensitive imaging modality for diagnosis of ureteric stones in a patient with acute colic is non contrast CT scan of abdomen. It has a sensitivity and specificity greater than 90%. Advantages of using it are: It avoids problems due to intravenous contrasts, allows diagnosis of non urological pathology. Disadvantage: It is associated with significant exposure to ionizing radiation (2.5cGy). Ref: Emergency Surgery By Adam Brooks, Page 127; SRB's Manual of Surgery By Sriram Bhat, 3rd Edition, Page 959