Dual-energy KUB Radiographic Examination for the Detection of Renal Calculus

Rationale and Objectives The dual-energy radiographic technique has been proved to be clinically useful in the thorax. Herein, we attempt to apply this technique to the abdomen and pelvis in the context of renal colic. Materials and Methods The visibility of renal calculi were assessed using various dual energy peak kilovoltage combination radiographs applied to standard phantoms. Results This technique demonstrates a higher than acceptable radiation dosage required to optimize the image quality and the optimized diagnostic quality is inferior to that of the standard Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder radiograph. Conclusions The dual-energy radiographic technique could not better identify the radiopaque renal calculi. Limiting technical considerations include the increased subcutaneous and peritoneal adipose tissue and the limited contrast between the soft tissue and underlying calculi.