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Review
. 2023 Sep;24(9):443-449.
doi: 10.1007/s11934-023-01171-8. Epub 2023 Jun 14.

Contemporary Use of Computed Tomography (CT) Imaging in Suspected Urolithiasis in Pregnancy

Nicholas S Dean  1 , Amy E Krambeck  2
Affiliations
Review

Contemporary Use of Computed Tomography (CT) Imaging in Suspected Urolithiasis in Pregnancy

Nicholas S Dean et al. Curr Urol Rep. 2023 Sep.

Abstract

Purpose of review: We aimed to examine the role of low-dose CT (LDCT) in the diagnostic work-up for suspected urolithiasis in pregnancy. We reviewed contemporary urologic recommendations for CT in pregnancy, its utilization for suspected urolithiasis, and explored barriers to its use.

Recent findings: National urologic guidelines and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend the judicious use of LDCT imaging in pregnancy when necessary. We noted inconsistencies in review article management pathways and recommendations for CT imaging for suspected urolithiasis in pregnancy. Overall CT utilization in pregnancy for suspected urolithiasis is low. Proposed barriers to LDCT use in pregnancy include fears of litigation and misperceptions of the harm of diagnostic radiation. Recent advancements in imaging technologies for urolithiasis in pregnancy are limited. More specific diagnostic pathway recommendations from national urologic guideline bodies for when to use LDCT to investigate renal colic in pregnancy may reduce diagnostic and intervention delays.

Keywords: CT; Computed tomography; Low-dose; Pregnancy; Radiation; Stones; Urolithiasis.

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References

Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance
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