Imaging for Suspected Nephrolithiasis

This chapter, found in the abdominal and pelvic pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of ultrasound and computed tomography for suspected nephrolithiasis. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. The study found that initial imaging with ultrasonography for suspected nephrolithiasis has similar diagnostic accuracy and short-term patient outcomes, but is associated with lower cumulative radiation exposure, compared to initial imaging with CT for suspected nephrolithiasis. Thus, ultrasound should be used as the initial diagnostic imaging test for patients with suspected renal colic, with additional imaging performed as needed. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.