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Measurement of Ureteric Stone Diameter in Different Planes on Multidetector Computed Tomography - Impact on the Clinical Decision Making

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To determine if the measurement of ureteric stone in coronal reconstruction plane is different from the measurement in axial plane and whether the difference can impact the management decision in patients with ureteric colic. All patients who underwent unenhanced multidetector computed tomographic (MDCT) scan for the evaluation of reno-ureteral colic in outpatient clinics and emergency room were evaluated. The scans were evaluated on Picture Archiving Computer System with a 3-mm axial and reformatted 3-mm coronal sections. Maximal stone diameter was measured in 2 dimensions in the axial and reformatted coronal sections by 2 reviewers. Only scans with isolated, unilateral, solitary ureteric calculi were included in the final analysis. All patients were monitored up to 4 weeks after MDCT to determine the clinical outcome. A total of 331 patients (272 male and 59 female; mean age ± standard deviation, 39.8 ± 13.8 years) were included. One hundred seventy-one (51.7%) stones passed spontaneously during the follow-up period. There was a 20% underestimation of maximal stone diameter in axial plane for all stones and a 17% for the stones that passed spontaneously or with medical expulsive therapy, as compared with measurement on coronal reconstruction. Measuring the transverse stone diameter on axial images of MDCT scan underestimates size of ureteric stone size. This can have an impact on counseling of patients and their clinical outcome, coronal reformatted images be used for size estimation.
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Endourology and Stones
Measurement of Ureteric Stone Diameter in
Different Planes on Multidetector Computed
Tomography eImpact on the Clinical
Decision Making
Syed M. Nazim, M. Hammad Ather, and Nadir Khan
OBJECTIVE To determine if the measurement of ureteric stone in coronal reconstruction plane is different
from the measurement in axial plane and whether the difference can impact the management
decision in patients with ureteric colic.
METHODS All patients who underwent unenhanced multidetector computed tomographic (MDCT) scan for
the evaluation of reno-ureteral colic in outpatient clinics and emergency room were evaluated.
The scans were evaluated on Picture Archiving Computer System with a 3-mm axial and
reformatted 3-mm coronal sections. Maximal stone diameter was measured in 2 dimensions in the
axial and reformatted coronal sections by 2 reviewers. Only scans with isolated, unilateral, solitary
ureteric calculi were included in the nal analysis. All patients were monitored up to 4 weeks after
MDCT to determine the clinical outcome.
RESULTS A total of 331 patients (272 male and 59 female; mean age standard deviation, 39.8 13.8
years) were included. One hundred seventy-one (51.7%) stones passed spontaneously during the
follow-up period. There was a 20% underestimation of maximal stone diameter in axial plane for
all stones and a 17% for the stones that passed spontaneously or with medical expulsive therapy,
as compared with measurement on coronal reconstruction.
CONCLUSION Measuring the transversestone diameter on axial images of MDCT scan underestimates size of ureteric
stone. This can have an impact on counseling of patients and their clinical outcome, coronal
reformatted images be used for size estimation. UROLOGY -:-e-, 2013. 2013 Elsevier Inc.
Unenhanced helical computed tomographic (CT)
scan is the imaging of choice for the diagnosis of
urolithiasis in symptomatic patients with re-
ported sensitivity and specicity close to 100%.
1,2
The 2
most important factors that guide clinical management
are stone size and its location.
3
There is a reverse linear
relationship between stone size and spontaneous passage;
hence, determination of maximal stone size is crucial
while counseling the patient and selecting the appro-
priate treatment strategy. Determination of maximal
stone size is crucial indicator in clinical decision making
for intervention or use of medical expulsive treatment for
which various
a
blockers have been used with compara-
ble efcacy.
4
Lee et al
5
recently noted that longitudinal
stone diameter was a signicant predictor of stone
expulsion with medical expulsive therapy (MET), and
coronal reconstruction might help to better choose a
patient who is suitable for MET.
With the improved resolution and multiplaner refor-
mations, multidetector computed tomography (MDCT)
has considerably improved imaging from cross sectional
(axial) imaging to true 3-D image.
6
The coronal recon-
struction of CT scan helps not only for better stone
detection but also reportedly for accurately assessing the
stone size oriented in vertical plane, especially the
ureteric stones.
7
Many modications have been suggested
to improve the stone size estimation, including using an
algorithm.
8
However, the most commonly used method is
estimation on coronal and reconstructed images.
The present study is designed to determine if mea-
surement of ureteric stone in coronal reconstruction
plane is different from the measurement in axial plane
and whether the difference can predict the outcome for
urolithiasis in patients with renal colic.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
This prospective study was conducted over a duration of 12
months from April 1, 2011 to March 31, 2012. All the
consecutive unenhanced CT scan (CT kidneys, ureters, and
Financial Disclosure: The authors declare that they have no relevant nancial interests.
From the Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan; and the
Department of Radiology, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
Reprint requests: M. Hammad Ather, M.B.B.S., F.C.P.S. (Urol), F.E.B.U.,
Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University, PO Box 3500, Stadium Road, Karachi
74800, Pakistan. E-mail: hammadather@gmail.com
Submitted: June 21, 2013, accepted (with revisions): September 16, 2013
ª2013 Elsevier Inc. 0090-4295/13/$36.00 1
All Rights Reserved http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.urology.2013.09.037
bladder [KUB]) done for the evaluation of reno-ureteral colic at
the outpatient clinics and emergency room were included.
The initial evaluation of all patients were done in the
emergency room and outpatient clinics with history, physical
examination, laboratory tests, and then with a subsequent
MDCT. All CT examinations were conducted on a 64-slice
MDCT machine (Aquilion, Toshiba Medical Systems, Shi-
moishigami, Otawara-Shi, Japan) without oral or intravenous
contrast. Three millimeters axial and reformatted 3-mm coronal
sections were evaluated on picture-archiving computer system
(View Pro-X version 4.0.6.2; Rogan-Delft, Veenendaal,
Holland). Our protocol for CT KUB scans the abdomen from
the xiphi-sternum to the lower border of symphysis pubis. It is
taken once the patient has an urge to void. All scans are ob-
tained with 120 kV and 250-300 mA exposure factors.
We analyzed only patients with a solitary, unilateral ureteric
stone in the line of ureter and excluded patients with multiple
and/or bilateral ureteric stone, stone in the kidney or bladder.
We also excluded patients who had stone in solitary renal unit,
pregnant female patients, those with fever and suspected active
urinary tract infection, and renal insufciency requiring active
intervention. All patients were started on MET.
Stone Evaluation
The CT scan lms were reviewed independently by a radiologist
(N.K.) and a urologist (S.M.N.) who had about 6þyears of
experience of reading CT KUB with an average of 20-25 lms per
week. Patientssymptoms and side of pain were noted, and these
clinical ndings were then correlated with the scan to support the
diagnosis of stone. Maximum diameter of the ureteral stone was
measured in axial and reformatted coronal sections on Picture
Archiving Computer System. The measurement of axial and
coronal plane for each stone was given to separate reviewers to
reduce bias. To facilitate the interpretation, the reviewers were
allowed to use the zoom function on the workstation. Each stone
was measured in 2 dimensions, along its maximum visualized
diameter and the other one perpendicular to it. This would also
give us an estimate of its area.
Stone area ¼maximum diameter perpendicular diameter
The stones were divided into 3 locations, upper, mid, and
lower. Calculi above the sacroiliac joint were deemed in upper
segment, those anterior to sacroiliac joint were midureteral, and
those below were deemed in lower segment. In addition, they
were also classied as at ureteropelvic junction and at ureter-
ovesical junction (UVJ). The patients were followed up pro-
spectively up to 4 weeks with x-ray KUB, urinalysis, ultrasound
KUB, and the clinical outcome (whether stone passed sponta-
neously/not passed or needed any surgical intervention).
Statistical Analysis
The statistical analyses were performed on SPSS version 19
software. The continuous variables were expressed as mean
standard deviation, and ttest was used for comparison. For the
nominal variables, chi-square test, ANOVA, and post hoc tests
were used. A Pvalue of .05 was considered signicant.
RESULTS
Over the duration of the study, total numbers of CT KUB
performed for evaluation of ank pain were 1587, out of
which 331 (21%) qualied the inclusion and exclusion
criteria and were included in the nal analysis. The mean
age of patients was 39.8 13.8 years (range, 15-85).
There were predominantly male, that is, 272 (82.2%) and
59 (17.8%) female patients in the analysis. The distri-
bution of stone was same on the right (49%) and the left
sides (51%).
The mean largest coronal diameter measured for all
stones was 7.0 4.0 mm (range, 1.5-24), and the mean
largest axial diameter was 5.6 3.0 mm (range, 0.8-25;
P<.001). Similarly the mean largest coronal area was
41.6 50.4 mm
2
(range, 2.1-376.4) as compared with
mean largest axial area 29.2 35 (range, 0.64-347.4;
P<.001; Fig. 1).
Most stones were located in the distal ureter (n ¼150,
45%), followed by proximal ureter (n ¼131, 40%) and
Figure 1. Stone size measurement with implication in clin-
ical outcome in a 53-year-old man presented with left ank
pain. He required ureteroscopy after 4 weeks of failed con-
servative management. (A) Multidetector computed tomog-
raphy axial view shows distal ureteric stone measuring
4.9 mm in maximal diameter. (B) Coronal reformations
show a vertically oriented stone measuring 10.4 mm in
maximal diameter.
2UROLOGY -(-), 2013
midureter (n ¼50, 15%). All patients were considered
for MET unless they have signicant pain requiring reg-
ular parenteral analgesia, signicant obstruction with
hydronephrosis, and signs of sepsis. A total of 171 pa-
tients (51.7%) could manage to pass the stone sponta-
neously (with MET and analgesia), whereas 160 (48.3%)
did not pass stone or required intervention. The
maximum proportion of stones that passed spontaneously
was located at the UVJ (86%) followed by distal ureter
(61%), midureter (41%), and proximal ureter (37%).
The mean diameter of spontaneously passed stone on
the coronal reconstruction was 5 1.6 mm (range, 2-9),
whereas it was 4.1 1.5 mm (range, 1.0-9.8) in the axial
section (P<.001; Table 1).
The stones were grouped according to the clinical
threshold for spontaneous passage, and of 171 stones
reported 5 mm in largest diameter on axial image, 65%
were correctly classied in the same size category for
craniocaudal diameter on coronal reconstruction, whereas
29% were upgraded to 5-7 mm and 6% to 7-10 mm in
diameter. Similarly, 51% of stones were upgraded to 7-
10 mm diameter on craniocaudal measurement on coro-
nal reconstruction from 5-7 mm in axial image and 44%
of stones reported to be in 7-10 mm category on axial
image were upgraded to >10 mm on coronal recon-
struction (Table 2).
In the analysis of stones that passed spontaneously, 137
of 171 (80%) were 5 mm in largest diameter on axial
image, whereas only 101 of 171 (59%) were in this size
category on coronal images. Thirty percent of stones re-
ported to be 5 mm and 52% of stones reported to be 5-
7 mm on axial image were upgraded in size on coronal
reconstructions (Table 3).
The clinical outcome was also different for stone size
categories with 78.7%, 36.7%, and 6% of stones passed
spontaneously for stone diameters 5 mm, 5-7 mm,
and 7 mm on axial images vs 82%, 62% and 15% for
stones of respective sizes reviewed on coronal images.
There was statistically signicant difference for stone
measurements in axial and coronal reconstructions for all
the locations. Two of the 6 parameters that were signi-
cantly related to stone passage in the univariate analysis,
that is, coronal stone area and sagittal stone area were
derivative parameters and were not included in the
multivariate analysis because of multicollinearity prob-
lems. The remaining 4 parameters were entered into
Table 1. Impact of stone diameter on spontaneous passage at various locations in the ureter
Stone Location Outcome Coronal Diameter (Mean SD) Axial Diameter (Mean SD) PValue
UVJ Stone passed (n ¼43) 4.6 1.4 (2.0-8.0) 4.0 1.29 (1.3-6.6) .001
Stone not passed (n ¼07) 9.7 3.8 (3.7-13.0) 9.0 4.8 (2.3-14.4)
Distal ureter Stone passed (n ¼61) 4.7 1.6 (2.0-8.7) 3.7 1.4 (0.8-7.5) <.001
Stone not passed (n ¼39) 8.51 3.84 (1.5-18.0) 6.8 2.3 (2.0-12.8)
Midureter Stone passed (n ¼21) 5.5 1.9 (2.3-9.0) 4.6 2.0 (2.0-10.8) .019
Stone not passed (n ¼30) 9.1 4.3 (3.1-24.2) 7.3 3.8 (4.3-24.7)
Proximal ureter Stone passed (n ¼46) 5.4 1.5 (1.9-8.9) 4.4 1.4 (1.0-8.6) <.001
Stone not passed (n ¼78) 9.7 1.4 (3.5-20.9) 7.2 3.0 (2.4-16.1)
UPJ Stone passed (n ¼0) ee.94
Stone not passed (n ¼6) 12.4 5.0 (7.7-19.3) 12.3 6.6 (4.1-19.5)
SD, standard deviation; UPJ, ureteropelvic junction; UVJ, ureterovesical junction.
Table 2. Difference in stone size based on clinical threshold for spontaneous passage; axial image vs coronal image
Craniocaudal Diameter on Coronal Reconstruction
5 mm 5-7 mm 7-10 mm >10 mm Total
Transverse diameter on axial image
5 mm 113 (65%) 51(29%) 10 (6%) e174
5-7 mm 7 (9%) 27 (34%) 40 (51%) 5 (6%) 79
7-10 mm 2 (4%) 4 (4%) 24 (44%) 24 (44%) 54
>10 mm 1 (4%) e1 (4%) 22 (92%) 24
Total 123 82 75 51 331
Table 3. Difference in stone size for spontaneously passed stones; axial image vs coronal image
Craniocaudal Diameter on Coronal Reconstruction
5 mm 5-7 mm 7-10 mm >10 mm Total
Transverse diameter on axial image
5 mm 96 (70%) 39 (28.5%) 2 (1.5%) e137
5-7 mm 4 (14%) 10 (34%) 15 (52%) e29
7-10 mm e2 (50%) 2 (50%) e4
>10 mm 1 eee1
Total 101 51 19 e171
UROLOGY -(-), 2013 3
backward stepwise binary logistic regression analyses that
demonstrated an independent relationship between stone
passage and largest coronal size (odds ratio 0.63, 95% CI
0.52-0.76; P<.001) and smallest axial size (odds ratio
0.57, 95% CI 0.42-0.79; P<.01).
On the post hoc analysis, when comparing the stone
area of passed stones on coronal reformation, the UVJ,
distal ureter, and midureteric stones were homogenous,
whereas proximal ureteric stone area was signicantly
different (P¼.027; Tukey test). While comparing the
stone area of passed stones on axial reformations, the
UVJ, midureter, and proximal ureteric stones were ho-
mogenous, whereas distal ureteric stone area was signi-
cantly different (P¼.029; Tukey test).
COMMENT
In view of its high accuracy and short acquisition time,
noncontrast CT scan has now become the gold standard
for the evaluation of patients presenting with acute ank
pain.
9,10
It not only provides information regarding
presence and localization of stones but also other details
that can help in management plan such as stone density,
degree of obstruction caused by stone, and obstructive
parameters such as hydronephrosis, hydroureter, and
perinephric stranding.
11
High quality multiplaner reformations with excellent
temporal and spatial resolution can be generated from
MDCT, by its ability to acquire thin slice volumetric
studies. It can display the urinary tract in its longitudinal
axis, thus improving the orientation of stones without
increasing the evaluation times.
12,13
Management of
ureteric stones depends on 2 most important parameters,
that is, stone location and size.
14
Various methods have
been described in the published data to measure the stone
size in radiographs, but there is no accepted standard
technique for stone measurement using CT scan.
15-18
Estimation of maximal transverse diameter from axial
image traditionally has been reported as the most
commonly used method. In a survey to determine the
radiological practices in the UK, Kampa et al
16
found lack
of uniformity among urologist in techniques for assessing
the stone size and they concluded that Guestimation
was the most prevalent method among radiologists for
assessing the maximal stone size.
13
The ureteric stones can be rounded or elongated. Most
of these are oriented vertically along the long axis of
ureter with maximal diameter in craniocaudal plane. It is
therefore imperative to have this dimension measured.
Accurate determination of these stone sizes is crucial in
helping the patient counseling and further management,
that is, conservative/expectant management vs inter-
vention, and even a difference of 1-2 mm can make a
signicant difference in this regard.
Nadler et al
14
in their study showed that axial images
consistently underestimated the stone size compared with
coronal reconstructions. The indirect estimation of cra-
niocaudal diameter of ureteric stone from axial images
alone considering the slice collimation does not provide
precise measurement of stone size.
13,14
Coronal reformations from MDCT have several ad-
vantages. It provides important complimentary informa-
tion to axial images, and combining the 2 together
improves the diagnostic condence and conspicuity of
stones by facilitating its differentiation from phlebolith,
calcied vascular plaques, or renal parenchymal calci-
cations.
15
It is also shown to improve better estimate the
maximal stone diameter, especially for stones that are
oriented in vertical plane.
19
Another advantage of coronal image is that it enables
visualization of kidney, ureter, and bladder simultaneously
in a plane that is almost parallel to the orientation of
these organs. This is more familiar and intuitive to urol-
ogist because it is analogous to projections of an
abdominal x-ray or excretory urogram.
13
Metser et al
7
compared axial vs coronal plane for renal
and ureteric stone size measurements and showed that for
all stones, the average underestimation of stone size was
approximately 13% in axial plane. Our study showed
signicant underestimation of stone size on axial images
as compared with the craniocaudal measurement from
coronal plane. It also showed that for all stones, the
maximal diameter in the axial plane was 20% less than
the coronal plane, and for the stones that passed there
was 17% reduction on axial image. Similarly, a signicant
proportion of stones were underestimated in size on axial
image measurements. Dundee et al
20
noted a 12% under-
estimation when comparing the CT scan in axial plane
with stone size on abdominal radiograph.
Lee et al
5
in their retrospective study evaluated the
difference between transverse and longitudinal stone di-
ameters on CT scan as a predictor of ureteral stone
expulsion after MET. They found the longitudinal
diameter to be signicant predictor of stone expulsion for
ureteral stones and concluded that this measurement in
coronal reconstruction can help to better choose patients
who are suitable for MET.
The chances for spontaneous passage are more than
98% for ureteric stones smaller than 5 mm, whereas it is
almost 60% and 39% for stones between 5-7 mm and
>7 mm in diameter, respectively.
3
Smith et al
21
in a case
series of 312 patients showed that the average size of
stones that was passed spontaneously was 4.6 mm,
whereas the average size of stones requiring intervention
was 6.0 mm. Our study correlated with the ndings of the
existing ones that the difference between the stones that
were passed spontaneously vs which could not were sig-
nicant. Moreover, this difference was signicant be-
tween the sizes measured in coronal and axial sections.
The rate of spontaneous stone passage is the function
of stone location.
3,14
A linear relationship was observed
in our study for location of stones in ureter with most
stones located more distally could manage to pass.
However, Kishore et al
22
have shown a weak correlation
coefcient for comparing the actual size of passed stones
vs CT scan measurements (axial and craniocaudal) for
4UROLOGY -(-), 2013
distal ureteric stones with actual size of passed intact
stones signicantly smaller than the one measured with
CT scan. Recently, Demehri et al
23
have proposed CT-
based determination of maximum ureteral stone area
(for complex ureteral stone) using a software program to
be superior to the stone diameter measurement. This is
the basis that long thin stones are more likely to pass than
a long thick one.
Our study has few limitations. First of all, the presence
of stone was assigned by a consensus between the 2 ob-
servers, and no standard of reference was followed for the
conrmation of stones. However, CT scan is the most
accurate way to diagnose the stones. Although we fol-
lowed up the patients to determine the clinical outcome,
we did not measure the actual size of passed stone and did
not compare it with radiological size. Similarly, not all the
passed stones were available for analysis.
To our knowledge, this is the rst study comparing the
ureteral stone size estimation in axial vs coronal planes
along with the clinical outcome during follow-up. Further
prospective studies examining the clinical outcomes for
patients with ureteric stones measured on axial images
alone vs clinical outcome of ureteric stones measured on
axial þcoronal reconstructions should be performed
along with the determination of actual stone size to
correlate which measurement is more accurate.
CONCLUSION
Measuring the transverse stone diameter on axial images
of MDCT scan underestimates size of ureteric stone. This
can potentially impact management algorithm. To
counsel patients for need of intervention and clinical
outcome of MET, coronal reformatted images be used for
size estimation.
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EDITORIAL COMMENT
Urologists recognize that small distal ureteral stones are likely to
pass; however, predicting which patient with a ureteral stone
will fail medical expulsive therapy (MET) remains challenging,
as there is no threshold size for ureteral stone passage. In the
present study, this axiom is held true because, regardless of
location in the ureter, stones that passed were approximately 4-5
mm in coronal size and those that did not pass averaged 8-9 mm
in coronal length.
Noncontrast computed tomographic scanning (NCCT) is the
cornerstone of diagnosing urinary calculi, especially in an
emergency department setting.
1
Simply measuring the coronal
length of a ureteral stone is an additional data point that all
radiologists and urologists can easily ascertain and thereby better
discriminate who is likely to fail MET. In addition, using
magnied bone windows on the NCCT, as described by Eisner
et al,
2
might offer the most accurate size estimate of ureteral
stones. Biomarkers such as C-reactive protein might help
UROLOGY -(-), 2013 5
discriminate which patients with stones of a passable sizewill
fail MET and require surgical intervention.
3,4
Using these data to create a nomogram would help patient
counseling; however, the means of assessing stone passage in this
study and in the stone literature in general remain far from
standardized.
5
Since not all patients in this study presented with
their passed stone for analysis or had a repeat NCCT to prove
they were stone free, the rate of passage might be less than re-
ported by the authors, and thus bias a nomogram constructed
from these data.
Until a biomarker is widely available, stone size remains one
of the best indicators of passage for ureteral calculi. The prac-
ticing urologist should use measurements of ureteral stones in
the axial and coronal planes to better counsel patients with a
ureteral calculus.
Peter L. Steinberg, M.D., Division of Urology, Department of
Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA
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could be predicted with plasma C-reactive protein. Urolithiasis. 2013;
41:235-239.
4. Angulo JC, Gaspar MJ, Rodriguez N, et al. The value of C-reactive
protein determination in patients with renal colic to decide urgent
urinary diversion. Urology. 2010;76:301-306.
5. Deters LA, Jumper CM, Steinberg PL, et al. Evaluating the denition
of stone free statusin contemporary urologic literature. Clin
Nephrol. 2011;76:354-357.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.urology.2013.09.040
UROLOGY -:5e6, 2013. 2013 Elsevier Inc.
REPLY
The indication for intervention in the treatment of uncompli-
cated ureteral stones in both the major international urologic
association guidelines (ie American Urological Association and
European Association of Urology)
1
is based on stone size.
However, methods for determining stone size are not stan-
dardized. Even in contemporary published data there are only
sparse reports regarding the preferred method for stone mea-
surement using the noncontrast computed tomography. The
most commonly used method is by estimation of maximal
transverse dimension from axial images.
Medical expulsive therapy has become the standard of care for
most symptomatic small- to medium-sized uncomplicated
stones. However, success of medical expulsive therapy (MET) is
difcult to predict. Currently, the most studied parameter is
stone size and site. Therefore, it is important that the stone size
estimation should be as accurate as possible. Some recent work,
2
including the present one is an attempt to see if size estimation
on reconstructed lm is a better predictor of successful MET
compared with conventional axial lms. The transverse calculus
measurement on axial slices often underestimates stone size and
provides incorrect clinical parameter for management decision.
Use of bone windows in particular when low-dose protocol is
used. Recently, Sohn et al
3
noted no signicant difference in the
measurement of stone size, Hounseld units, or skin to stone
distance between the low-dose and conventional-dose
computed tomographic scans. However, the low-dose computed
tomographic scan have an inherent advantage of marked
reduction in the radiation dose to the patient.
Stone clearance spontaneously or with pharmacologic support
is dependent on many diverse factors; therefore, it also makes
sense that multiparametric models should be developed for ac-
curate assessment of successful MET. Studies with robust design
looking at various clinical, demographic, anatomic, and
biochemical parameters besides stone size and location are
needed to answer these questions.
M. Hammad Ather, M.D., F.C.P.S. (Urol), F.E.B.U.,
Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
References
1. Preminger GM, Tiselius HG, Assimos DG, et al. 2007 guideline for
the management of ureteral calculi. J Urol. 2007;178:2418-2434.
2. Berkovitz N, Simanovsky N, Katz R, et al. Coronal reconstruction of
unenhanced abdominal CT for correct ureteral stone size classica-
tion. Eur Radiol. 2010;20:1047-1051.
3. Sohn W, Clayman RV, Lee JY, et al. Low-dose and standard
computed tomography scans yield equivalent stone measurements.
Urology. 2013;81:231-234.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.urology.2013.09.041
UROLOGY -: 6, 2013. 2013 Elsevier Inc.
6UROLOGY -(-), 2013
... [1] Selection of the optimal treatment modality is generally based on location and stone burden of ureteral stones. [2] However, impaction is another important factor that affect the success rate of treatment; thus, it should be considered before all types of intervention. Moreover, higher complication rates have been reported in patients with impacted stones. ...
... [21] The rate of spontaneous passage was reported to be >98% for ureteral stones <5 mm, whereas it was almost 39% for stones >7 mm in diameter. [2] Stone impaction can be seen if the stone stayed in the same location for a certain period of time. Thus, larger stones are more likely to adhere of the ureteral wall than smaller stones, which is based on the fact that larger stones are more prone to be impacted. ...
... Long, thin stones can more easily migrate in the ureter than long, thick stones. [2] According to the present study results, increased transverse stone length and longest stone length are strongly correlated with impaction. ...
Article
Full-text available
Background: We aimed to determine if the ratio of the upper to the lower diameter of the ureter could have any predictive value for ureteral stone impaction. Materials and methods: Patients who had a solitary unilateral ureteric stone, determined by noncontrast computerized tomography, were assessed if they had undergone ureteroscopic lithotripsy. A total of 111 patients, 84 males (76%), and 27 females (24%), were recruited to the study. Demographic data of the patients and preoperative radiological parameters based on noncontrast computerized tomography were recorded. The impaction status was also assessed during the operation. Results: Of the 111 patients, ureteral stones in 63 (57%) patients were determined to be impacted, and ureteral stones in 48 (43%) were nonimpacted. Impacted stones were more common in older patients, female patients, and patients with an American Society of Anesthesiologists score of 2. Conclusions: Significant relationships were found between the impaction status and transverse stone length, longest stone length, upper diameter of the ureter, ratio (upper diameter of the ureter/lower diameter of the ureter), and anteroposterior diameter of the pelvis. These parameters were higher in patients with impacted stones.
... In particular, most previous studies performed a linear measurement on axial images to describe stone size. Contrary to the routine method, some researchers have consistently reported a significant discrepancy between axial and coronal orientation on the largest diameter and area, respectively, and they found that stones were often underestimated on the axial images and needed to be measured on the coronal images instead [22,23]. The shape of ureteral stones can vary greatly from round to elongated, and the course of the ureter in the abdomen also varies. ...
Article
Full-text available
The objective of this study was to compare the value of one-, two- and three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) measurements for predicting the efficacy of a single session of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) in patients with a single ureteral stone. A total of 165 patients were included based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Different models were constructed using a combination of patients' clinical data and measurements obtained by manual sketching and automated extraction software. Multivariate logistic regression was used to develop the models. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess the performance of the models. There was good interobserver agreement for all measurements in different dimensions (P < 0.001). We also found that hydronephrosis, the largest diameter, the largest area, volume, and mean CT value were significantly greater in the failure group than in the success group (P < 0.01). Furthermore, all sizes and CT measurement values were found to be independent predictors for predicting efficacy after one session of ESWL (P < 0.05). In addition, the multivariate logistic analysis showed that the area under the curve (AUC) for two-dimensional and three-dimensional measurements was superior to that of one-dimensional measurement (P < 0.01). However, when size alone was included as a measurable predictor, there was no significant difference in the AUC among the one-, two-, and three-dimensional measurements (P > 0.05). In summary, after adjusting for clinical data, two- and three-dimensional measurements combining ureteral stone size and CT values were found to be the best predictors of ESWL efficacy, and software-based three-dimensional measurements should be considered to avoid interobserver variability in clinical practice.
... The treatment of the urinary tract calculus depends on the size of the calculus and is best appreciated on CT. Direct multiplanar reconstructions are another feature of MDCT that allows for 3-dimensional stone renderings even more accurate measurements [15,26,27]. ...
Article
Full-text available
Obstructive uropathy, a prevalent clinical problem, can irreparably harm the kidneys if not treated promptly. As a result, accurate diagnosis is necessary for prompt management. This study examines the utility of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) urography in identifying obstructive uropathy. PubMed, Google, Embase, Medline, and other electronic databases were used to search the English-language literature. The search phrases were obstructive urinary infections or urinary bladder or kidneys or MDCT. The authors’ expertise and experience in the subject area aided in archiving pertinent publications. Even though the dilated upper tract of the ureters can be seen, ultrasonography (USG) has limitations because it cannot show the middle portion of the ureters, even if they are dilated mostly due to bowel gas artifacts. The USG does not emphasize the functioning of the renal tract. To evaluate obstructive uropathy, MDCT urography plays a very important role. For speedy, effective therapy, it provides a quick diagnosis of the source of obstruction.
... Stone size was also noted in two dimensions: one along its maximum visualized diameter and the other one perpendicular to it. This approach gave us an estimate of the stone area [6], based on the following formula: ...
Article
Full-text available
Background and objective In this study, we aimed to analyze the association of ureteral wall thickness (UWT) measured on non-contrast CT (NCCT) with stone impaction as found in ureteroscopy (URS). Materials and methods We analyzed 43 patients who underwent URS and pneumatic/laser lithotripsy for ureteric stones from May to November 2022. The UWT was measured by an experienced radiologist on NCCT. Clinical predictors of the impacted stone were calculated by univariate and multivariate regression analysis. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was calculated for the UWT cutoff to apply it for impaction with different parameters. We also evaluated the association of intra- and postoperative parameters of the two groups with UWT. Results Out of the 43 patients with stones, 26 (60.46%) patients had impacted stones. Univariate analysis was used to analyze the site (left-sided stone impacted more commonly), stone size, stone density [Hounsfield unit (HU)], hydronephrosis, UWT, and duration between initial presentation and surgery, and multivariate analysis was utilized to assess stone density, as well as UWT's association with impacted stones. The ROC curve showed a cutoff of 3.5 mm for UWT with an accuracy of 0.83. High UWT (≥3.5 mm) was associated with a significantly lower stone-free rate, more complications, and mean operative time as compared to low UWT (<3.5 mm) (p<0.05). Conclusion Based on our findings, high UWT is associated with high rates of impacted stones and a lower stone-free rate when compared to low UWT.
... The size of the ureteral stone was evaluated as the largest diameter of the stone as identified by unenhanced multidetector computed tomographic (MDCT) scan. The scans were evaluated on Picture Archiving Computer System with a reformatted 3-mm coronal sections (14). The mean degree of hydronephrosis was considered to be the extended of the renal pelvis and was examined by ultrasonography. ...
Article
Full-text available
Background: The ideal treatment for upper ureteric calculi is still debatable, particularly for patients with large, impacted ureteric calculi. Retroperitoneal laparoscopic ureterolithotomy (RLU) may be a worthwhile alternative to open surgery. In this study, we retrospectively evaluated our clinical experience associated with RLU performed for impacted upper ureteric calculi (>1.5 cm) help urologists in clinical practice and provide a reference for clinical work. Methods: A total of 64 cases (38 males; 26 females) with impacted upper ureteric calculi between April 2018 and January 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. The basic information of the included research subjects are as follows: The mean age was 50.8±25.4 years. The largest stone diameter was 1.8±0.3 cm. The mean stone retention time was 42±11 days. The mean degree of hydronephrosis was 2.8±1.2 cm. Results: The mean operative time was 85.4±18.3 minutes. The mean hospital duration was 7.5±1.8 days. The stone-free rate was 98.4%. Two patients required additional intervention. Post-operative fever developed in 3 patients. The decrease in hemoglobin levels was 7.8±3.6 g/L. The increase in procalcitonin (PCT) level was 3.7±1.8 ng/mL. No major complications, for example, sepsis, bleeding, bowel injury, or cardiopulmonary morbidities, were reported. Conclusions: RLU should be regarded as an excellent first line treatment modality for impacted upper ureteric calculi (>1.5 cm) owing to the high success rate, low complication rate, and the short length of operative time and hospital duration.
Article
Objectives: Renal colic (RC) is one of the most frequent reasons for presentation to the emergency department (ED) and creates a high economic and medical burden. Management strategies for RC range from waiting for spontaneous passage to surgical intervention. However, factors determining spontaneous stone passage (SSP) are still poorly understood. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the role of the systemic immune-inflammatory index (SII) in predicting SSP. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of 924 patients aged over 18 years, who were diagnosed with RC in our clinic between 1 January 2019, and 30 May 2022, and had ureteral stones of ≤ 10 mm. The patients were divided into two groups according to whether they had SSP. The clinical and laboratory characteristics of the patients in the ED were evaluated. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and SII (neutrophil count x platelet count/lymphocyte count) values of the patients were calculated. Stone size and location were also recorded. Results: In the univariate analysis of SSP, a ureteral stone size of ≤ 5 mm (p < 0.001), distal ureteral location (p < 0.001), SII (p < 0.001), NLR (p < 0.001), and PLR (p = 0.036) were significantly correlated with SSP. ROC analysis showed that an SII level < 721.8 (Sensitivity %82.6, Specificity %74.7, p < 0.001) was an independent predictor of SSP. Conclusion: Our findings showed that a low SII level was associated with SSP and could be used as a predictive marker of SSP as a more valuable parameter than NLR. SII and NLR, together with other indicators, are inflammatory markers that can be used in the clinical decision-making process for ureteral stone treatment.
Article
Purpose of review: Radiological imaging techniques and applications are constantly advancing. This review will examine modern imaging techniques in the diagnosis of urolithiasis and applications for surgical planning. Recent findings: The diagnosis of urolithiasis may be done via plain film X-ray, ultrasound (US), or contrast tomography (CT) scan. US should be applied in the workup of flank pain in emergency rooms and may reduce unnecessary radiation exposure. Low dose and ultra-low-dose CT remain the diagnostic standard for most populations but remain underutilized. Single and dual-energy CT provide three-dimensional imaging that can predict stone-specific parameters that help clinicians predict stone passage likelihood, identify ideal management techniques, and possibly reduce complications. Machine learning has been increasingly applied to 3-D imaging to support clinicians in these prognostications and treatment selection. Summary: The diagnosis and management of urolithiasis are increasingly personalized. Patient and stone characteristics will support clinicians in treatment decision, surgical planning, and counseling.
Article
Objective To combine non-contrast computerized tomography (NCCT)-based parameters with stone and patient characteristics that are already known to affect shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) success and assess this novel model’s effectiveness in predicting SWL success for single ureteral stones in different locations. Materials and methods Data of patients treated by SWL for a single ureteral stone between January 2017 and January 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic parameters of patients and stone characteristics were combined with NCCT-based parameters. NCCT-based parameters included the presence or absence of hydronephrosis, perinephric stranding, periureteral edema, diameter of the proximal ureter, ureteral wall thickness (UWT) at ureteral stone site. The logistic regression method was used for the development of a useful predictive model. Subsequently, the receiver operating curve was used to determine cut-off levels, and a scoring system was developed for prediction of SWL success. Results Stone-free rate was 77,1% (267/346) in the entire cohort. Univariate analysis revealed that age, stone volume, density, perinephric stranding, diameter of proximal ureter, and UWT, were associated with SWL success. In multivariate analysis, proximal ureteral stone location, stone volume, density, and UWT were independent predictors of SWL success. The formula used during logistic regression analysis was: 1/[1 + exp {−8.856 + 0.008 (stone volume) + 0.002 (stone density) + 0.673 (UWT) + 1026 (proximal ureteral stone)}]. The scores of 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 were associated with 97,8%, 83,4%, 60,8%, 33,2% and 11,1% success rates, respectively, in the prediction model based on these parameters. Conclusion We conclude that our model can facilitate decision-making for SWL treatment of ureteral stones in different locations.
Article
Resumen Objetivo Incorporar los parámetros basados en la tomografía computarizada sin contraste (TCSC) a las características de los cálculos y de los pacientes comúnmente asociadas con el éxito de la litotricia por ondas de choque (LEOCH) para evaluar la efectividad de este nuevo modelo en la predicción del éxito de LEOCH en cálculos ureterales únicos situados en diferentes localizaciones. Materiales y métodos Se revisaron retrospectivamente los datos de los pacientes tratados con LEOCH por un único cálculo ureteral entre enero de 2017 y enero de 2019. Los parámetros basados en la TCSC se evaluaron junto con los parámetros demográficos de los pacientes y las características de los cálculos. Los parámetros basados en TCSC incluyeron la presencia o ausencia de hidronefrosis, trabeculación de la grasa perirrenal, edema periureteral, diámetro del uréter proximal, grosor de la pared ureteral (GPU) en el sitio del cálculo ureteral. Se utilizó el método de regresión logística para desarrollar un modelo predictivo útil. Posteriormente, se utilizó la curva ROC para determinar los puntos de corte, y se desarrolló un sistema de puntuación para la predicción del éxito de LEOCH. Resultados La tasa libre de cálculos fue del 77,1% (267/346) en toda la cohorte. El análisis univariante reveló que la edad, el volumen de los cálculos, la densidad, la trabeculación perirrenal, el diámetro del uréter proximal y el GPU se asociaron con el éxito de la LEOCH. En el análisis multivariante, la localización del cálculo ureteral proximal, el volumen del cálculo, la densidad y el GPU fueron predictores independientes del éxito de la LEOCH. La fórmula utilizada en el análisis de regresión logística fue: 1/ [1 + exp {-8,856 + 0,008(volumen del cálculo) + 0,002 (densidad del cálculo) + 0,673 (GPU) + 1026 (cálculo ureteral proximal)}]. Las puntuaciones de 0, 1, 2, 3 y 4 se asociaron con un 97,8%, 83,4%, 60,8%, 33,2% y 11,1% de éxito, respectivamente, en el modelo de predicción basado en estos parámetros. Conclusión Concluimos que nuestro modelo puede ser útil en la elección del tratamiento con LEOCH de los cálculos ureterales en diferentes localizaciones.
Article
Objectives: The purpose of our study was to determine the value of unenhanced CT in the diagnosis of acute flank pain. We determined the accuracy of unenhanced Ct for stone detection as well as the detection of abnormalities unrelated to stone disease. Materials and methods: During an 18-month interval, 292 patients with acute flank pain were imaged with unenhanced CT. Confirmation of the CT diagnosis was obtained for 210 patients: One hundred patients were proved to have ureteral stones based on other imaging studies (58 patients), lithotripsy (seven patients), ureteroscopic stone extraction (five patients), and stone recovery (30 patients). One hundred ten patients were proved not to have ureteral stones based on other imaging studies (24 patients), failure to recover a stone (56 patients), or a confirmed diagnosis unrelated to stone disease (30 patients). This latter group of 30 patients included diagnoses of adnexal masses (eight patients), appendicitis (five patients), diverticulitis (four patients), and common bile duct stones (three patients), as well as other diagnoses. Results: Unenhanced CT findings were falsely negative for stone disease in three patients and falsely positive for stone disease in four patients. These data yield a sensitivity of 97%, a specificity of 96%, and an accuracy of 97% for diagnosing ureteral stone disease. Of 31 patients with a CT abnormality unrelated to stone disease, there was one false-negative diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Conclusion: Unenhanced CT is a valuable technique for examining patients with acute flank pain in whom a clinical diagnosis is uncertain. It can accurately determine the presence or absence of ureteral stones as well as extraurinary causes of acute flank pain. In most cases, other imaging studies are not required.
Article
Article
Ureteral stones tend to induce inflammatory lesions in the ureteric wall; such lesions may interfere with the probability of spontaneous ureteral stone passage. Plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase protein whose serum level is increases in response to inflammation, as in ureteric inflammatory disorders induced by stone impaction. Patients with distal ureteric stones were included in this study. All patients were subjected to history taking KUB, urinary tract ultrasound, Non-contrast CT (NC-CTKUB) scan, and plasma CRP estimation. All patients received medical expulsive therapy. Patients were examined weekly using KUB and urinary tract ultrasound until spontaneous stone passage or intervention after 4 weeks. Patients who failed to expel the stone within 4 weeks underwent ureteroscopy. Spontaneous stone expulsion within 4 weeks was recorded in 129 patients (54.9 %), while 106 patients (45.1 %) underwent ureteroscopy for stone extraction. Patients with spontaneous stone expulsion had significantly lower serum CRP levels (16.45 + 2.58) than those who failed to pass the stone spontaneously (39.67 + 6.30). Receiver operator characteristic curve is used to determine CRP cut-off point for prediction of spontaneous ureteric stone expulsion. A cut-off point of 21.9 mg/L for CRP yielded appeared optimal for prediction of spontaneous ureteric stone expulsion. Medical expulsive therapy success for management of small distal ureteric calculi could be predicted with plasma CRP. Patients with CRP >21.9 mg/L have low stone expulsion rate and should directly be subjected for an immediate, minimally invasive ureteroscopy.
Article
To ascertain the reliability of low-dose computed tomography (CT) compared with standard CT in the determination of stone size, density, and skin-to-stone distance (SSD). A total of 10 patients seen in the emergency room within a mean of 23 days (range 0-51) underwent both conventional CT and low-dose CT for the same stone. The radiation dose reduction was calculated according to the patient's body mass index. The CT scans were performed with 2-mm section cuts, and 3-dimensional reconstruction was performed to obtain the coronal views. The stone size was measured (ie, height, width, and length), and the Hounsfield units were calculated. In addition, the SSD was calculated for the nonmoving renal stones. No difference was found in stone size between the 2 dosage levels, as measured by the height, width, length, and volume of the stone (P = .9, P = .7, P = .8, and P = .8 respectively). In addition, no difference in Hounsfield units was appreciated between the 2 scan types (P = .6). Finally, no significant difference was found in the SSD (P = .5). Between the 2 scans, the average effective dose reduction was 73%, from 23 to 6 mSv (P = .002). No significant difference was found in the measurement of stone size, Hounsfield units, or SSD between the low-dose and conventional-dose CT scans. However, the low-dose CT scans resulted in a marked reduction in the radiation dose to the patient.
Article
Purpose This technology assessment addresses the optimal use of imaging in the evaluation and treatment of patients with suspected or documented ureteral stones. Materials and Methods A comprehensive literature search addressing 4 guiding questions was performed for full text in English articles published between January 1990 and July 2011. The search focused on major subtopics associated with the imaging of ureteral calculi, and included specific imaging modalities used in the diagnosis and management of ureteral calculous disease such as unenhanced (noncontrast) computerized tomography, conventional radiography, ultrasound, excretory urography, magnetic resonance imaging and nuclear medicine studies. Protocols (in the form of decision tree algorithms) were developed based on this literature review and in some instances on panel opinion. The 4 questions addressed were 1) What imaging study should be performed for suspected ureteral calculous disease? 2) What information should be obtained? 3) After diagnosis of a ureteral calculus, what followup imaging should be used? 4) After treatment of a ureteral calculus, what followup imaging studies should be obtained? Results Based on these protocols, noncontrast computerized tomography is recommended to establish the diagnosis in most cases, with a low energy protocol advocated if body habitus is favorable. Conventional radiography and ultrasound are endorsed for monitoring the passage of most radiopaque stones as well as for most patients undergoing stone removal. Other studies may be indicated based on imaging findings, and patient, stone and clinical factors. Conclusions The protocols generated assist the clinician in establishing the diagnosis of ureteral calculous disease, monitoring stone passage and following patients after treatment. The protocols take into account not only clinical effectiveness but also cost-effectiveness and risk/harm associated with the various imaging modalities.
Article
To evaluate stone diameter and ureteral dilation using computerized tomography as a predictor of ureteral stone expulsion after medical expulsive therapy. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 328 patients with symptomatic ureteral stones <10 mm on axial computerized tomography images, who were treated with alpha blockers for 2 weeks. Computerized tomography scans were also performed 2 weeks after medical expulsive therapy to confirm ureteral stone expulsion. Patients were divided into upper ureteral stones and lower ureteral stones above and below the iliac vessels, respectively. Transverse stone diameter and longitudinal stone diameter were defined as the largest stone diameter determined on the axial and coronal computerized tomography images, respectively. Ureteral diameter was determined on one computerized tomography slice proximal to each ureteral stone on axial computerized tomography images, and the ratio of ureter-to-stone diameter was defined as ureteral diameter divided by transverse stone diameter. Among 328 patients, the stone expulsion rate was 44.1% in 145 upper ureteral stones and 69.4% in 183 lower ureteral stones. Transverse stone diameter, longitudinal stone diameter, ureteral diameter, and the ratio of ureter-to-stone diameter were significantly lower in patients with ureteral stone expulsion in upper ureteral stones and lower ureteral stones (P < .001 for all parameters). Logistic regression analysis revealed that only longitudinal stone diameter was a significant predictor of stone expulsion in patients with upper ureteral stones (odds ratio 0.580, P = .040) and lower ureteral stones (odds ratio 0.415, P = .012). Longitudinal stone diameter was a significant predictor of stone expulsion in patients with upper ureteral stones and lower ureteral stones after medical expulsive therapy. Measurement of stone diameters in coronal reconstruction may help to better choose a patient who is suitable for medical expulsive therapy.
Article
The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that the maximum axial area of ureteral stones is a more accurate predictor of spontaneous passage than the maximum axial diameter. This study retrospectively reviewed 211 consecutive emergency department patients (mean age, 48.8 years; age range, 18-88 years) with acute flank pain due to ureteral stones diagnosed using unenhanced CT. Measurements of maximum atrial area were obtained using fixed (FTM) and variable (VTM) threshold methods. For the FTM, stones were segmented using an attenuation threshold of 130 HU. For the VTM, stones were segmented using an attenuation threshold determined by one half of individual stone attenuation. Measurements of maximum atrial diameter were obtained using soft-tissue and bone window settings. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to compare the accuracy of maximum atrial area with maximum atrial diameter measurements for predicting spontaneous passage. Fifty-seven patients (27%) required urologic intervention. The areas under the ROC curve (AUC) of maximum atrial area using FTM (0.83, p = 0.013) and VTM (0.84, p = 0.004) were larger than the AUC (0.8, p = 0.4) for maximum atrial diameter using bone window settings or AUC (0.79) for maximum atrial iameter using soft-tissue window settings. For stones with maximum atrial diameter (in soft-tissue window settings) > 5 mm and ≤ 10 mm, the accuracy of maximum atrial area using VTM (AUC = 0.75) and FTM (AUC = 0.74) was superior to the accuracy of maximum atrial diameter in soft-tissue (AUC = 0.67) and bone (AUC = 0.69) window settings (p < 0.05) in predicting spontaneous passage. Determination of the maximum axial area may improve the accuracy in predicting spontaneous passage of ureteral stones, particularly those between 5 and 10 mm.
Article
The size estimation in CT images of an obstructing ureteral calculus is important for the clinical management of a patient presenting with renal colic. The objective of the present study was to develop a reader independent urinary calculus segmentation algorithm using well-known digital image processing steps and to validate the method against size estimations by several readers. Fifty clinical CT examinations demonstrating urinary calculi were included. Each calculus was measured independently by 11 readers. The mean value of their size estimations was used as validation data for each calculus. The segmentation algorithm consisted of interpolated zoom, binary thresholding and morphological operations. Ten examinations were used for algorithm optimisation and 40 for validation. Based on the optimisation results three segmentation method candidates were identified. Between the primary segmentation algorithm using cubic spline interpolation and the mean estimation by 11 readers, the bias was 0.0 mm, the standard deviation of the difference 0.26 mm and the Bland-Altman limits of agreement 0.0 ± 0.5 mm. The validation showed good agreement between the suggested algorithm and the mean estimation by a large number of readers. The limit of agreement was narrower than the inter-reader limit of agreement previously reported for the same data. The size of kidney stones is usually estimated manually by the radiologist. An algorithm for computer-aided size estimation is introduced. The variability between readers can be reduced. A reduced variability can give better information for treatment decisions.
Article
There is no standardized definition of stone free after renal stone surgery. The lack of standardization prompted a review of the current urologic literature, to assess the definitions of stone free status, and how imaging is used to determine stone free status. A literature search on PubMed for the MeSH terms for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), ureteroscopy with lithotripsy, shock wave lithotripsy (SWL), and laser lithotripsy, published in English between January 2007 and January 2010 was performed. Case reports, articles not evaluating stone free outcomes, and review articles were excluded. Articles were evaluated for the treatment modality, definition of stone free status, and the imaging modality employed to determine stone free status. This search yielded 417 articles of which 249 met inclusion criteria. Stone free was defined in 169 articles (68%). The most common definition of stone free was "no stones" (47%), but a total of seven different definitions were encountered. The most common treatment modality was PCNL (47%), followed by SWL (33%), and URS (13%). The most common detection modality was KUB alone (28%), the second most common being KUB and US combined (22%). Nearly one-third of articles evaluating surgical management of urinary calculi do not define stone free status; when stone free is defined, there is wide variation as to that definition. Furthermore, vast differences exist in the type of imaging used to define stone free status. The urologic community should standardize the reporting of stone free outcomes in the urologic literature.
Article
To analyze whether C-reactive protein (CRP) predicts the need for urgent urinary diversion in patients with renal colic and urolithiasis. CRP may help in the differential diagnosis of complicated hydronephrosis. Prospective study done on 110 consecutive patients with renal colic secondary to upper urinary tract calculi admitted in the emergency room. Clinical and analytical data were collected. Criteria for emergency drainage had been established in advance, based on the risk of sepsis, renal failure, persistence of pain, and findings on computed tomography scan. CRP was blindly determined using immunoturbidimetric assay on the Integra 700 analyzer. Statistical analysis included Mann-Whitney test, Cox multivariate analysis, and receiver operating characteristic curves, to determine optimum cut-off points to decide drainage based on laboratory data. Mean CRP value was 47.6 mg/L (CI, 31.4-63.8), 139.6 mg/L (CI, 13-183.1) in 29 patients treated with diversion and 14.67 mg/L (CI, 6.7-22.5) in the control group (P <.001). Age, sex, rate of patients with hypertension, history of cardiovascular disease, leukocyte total count, and serum creatinine differed between groups (P <.05). Regression analysis revealed CRP (P <.0001) and age (P = .0001) were predictive of urinary diversion. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed 68.4% area under the curve for creatinine, 68.8% for leukocytosis, and 86.8% for CRP. A cut-off point for CRP of 28 mg/L achieved optimum sensitivity (75.8%) and specificity (88.9%) for determining the decision for drainage. Determination of CRP in patients with renal colic due to urolithiasis provides an objective and useful parameter for deciding placement of urinary stent, which is even more valuable than leukocytosis or seric creatinine level.