Imaging Flashcards
how many nephrons per kidney?
approx 1 million
Vascular variants at the hilum of kidney
- Superior pole accessory renal artery
- Early branching of renal artery
Strengths of US for kidneys:
Renal size cortical scarring doppler distenstion of pelvicalyceal system calculi detection of renal abnormalities cheap
weaknesses of US for kidneys
User dependent
Limited characterisation of focal lesions
No contrast medium
Strengths of CT for kidneys
Quick Multi-phasic assessment of kidney Vascular assessment Most pathologies characterised High spatial resolution Multiplanar imaging possible
Weaknesses of CT for kidneys
High dose ionising radiation
Contrast induced Nephropathy
CT phase best to depict calculi
pre-contrast
CT phase best for cortical (cortex) enhancement
corticomedullary
CT phase best for renal medulla and cortex
Nephrographic
CT phase best for opacification of renal collecting system and ureters
Excretory
Strengths of MRI for kidneys
Excellent tissue contrast resolution
Renal lesion characterisation
Vascular assessment
Characterises most pathologies
Weaknesses of MRI for kidneys
Lengthy acquisition
Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis
Replaced IV urography
CT urogram
Urethrogram
Retrograde filling of urethra
Identifies strictures, trauma, + diverticula
Genitals: US primary imaging for -
Testes/scrotum
Uterus and ovaries
Prostate biopsies