An examination of the kidneys, adrenal glands, ureters, perirenal fat and deep lymph nodes. It is the most accurate method for detecting kidney stones.
- Duration5 minutes, with contrast 30–40 minutes
- Contrastif indicated
- Preparationrequired: diet
- Report1–2 hours
What it shows
- Kidney and ureteric stones: number, size, position
- Kidney cysts, including polycystic kidney disease
- Benign and malignant tumours of the kidneys and adrenal glands
- Adrenal hyperplasia
- Injuries and haematomas after trauma
- Kidney abscess and carbuncle
- Enlarged lymph nodes and lymph node metastases
- The collecting system and renal vessels (with contrast)
When it is recommended
- Suspected kidney stones, clarifying ultrasound or urography findings
- Blunt injury to the abdomen or lower back
- Suspected kidney or adrenal tumour
- Search for metastases; lymph node involvement in blood disorders and lymphoma
- Developmental anomalies of the kidneys and ureters
- Dropped kidney (nephroptosis) with kinking of its vascular pedicle
- Planning surgery or stone fragmentation (lithotripsy)
- Monitoring disease or recovery after injury
Preparation
- For 2–3 days before the scan, follow a diet without foods that cause bloating or constipation; take anti-flatulence remedies if needed
- If you suffer from marked constipation, empty your bowels the evening before (enema or laxative)
Good to know
- After contrast injection, delayed (excretory phase) images show the collecting system and ureters.
- MRI is often preferred for small hormone-producing adrenal tumours.
- After abdominal injury this examination is often combined with CT of the abdomen.
General information about CT — safety, contraindications, contrast and what to expect — is on the CT page.