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Review
. 2014 Sep;7(3):103-10.
doi: 10.1177/1753495X14538422. Epub 2014 Jun 16.

Renal stones in pregnancy

Shireen Meher  1 , Norma Gibbons  1 , Ranan DasGupta  1
Affiliations
Review

Renal stones in pregnancy

Shireen Meher et al. Obstet Med. 2014 Sep.

Abstract

Diagnosis and treatment of renal stones during pregnancy is a complex problem. Risks to the fetus from ionising radiation and interventional procedures need to be balanced with optimising clinical care for the mother. Management of such patients requires a clear understanding of available options, with a multidisciplinary team approach. In this review, we discuss the role of different diagnostic tests including ultrasound, magnetic resonance urography, and computerized tomography. We also provide an update on recent developments in the treatment of renal stones during pregnancy. Expectant management remains first-line treatment. Where definitive treatment of the stone is required, new evidence suggests that ureteroscopic stone removal may be equally safe, and possibly better than traditional temporising procedures.

Keywords: Renal stones; nephrolithiasis; pregnancy; urolithiasis.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
MRU demonstrating ureteric stone as a ‘signal void’.
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
Echogenic area with posterior acoustic shadow, suggestive of a renal stone.
Figure 3.
Figure 3.
Ureteric stent with lower pole renal stones.
Figure 4.
Figure 4.
Percutaneous nephrostomy with proximal ureteric stone.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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