A Comparison of Urinary Tract Lesions Evaluated by Computerized Tomography and Ultrasonography

The value of gray-scale ultrasonography in the evaluation of pathologic processes involving the urinary tract is well documented. Recently, computerized tomography has captured the attention of the medical community as a new imaging modality capable of producing graphic demonstrations of normal and pathologic anatomy in transverse planes. Serious questions have been raised however, especially by health planners and consumers, concerning the proper role of computerized tomography in the evaluation of non-cranial lesions. The purchase price of the unit is high as are the costs of maintenance and daily operation. Computerized tomography requires the use of ionizing radiation and there is growing concern about the health hazards of ever increasing exposures to x-radiation. This presentation will attempt to determine if computerized tomography adds useful clinical information not available with ultrasonography and if the price to be paid is justified.