The urinary tract is mainly composed of the Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder & the Urethra. This serves as the drainage system of our body for excess fluid and urine. All these main parts must work together systematically in order to facilitate normal urination.
Urology imaging does not only limit itself in the urinary tract of male, it also covers the male reproductive organs which includes the prostate, testes and penis.
If ever there are irregularities that may occur your doctor may request multiple examination which usually involves radiology imaging.
Some of the most common symptoms for a doctor to order you any urologic imaging may include the following:
Ultrasound may be a common procedure involved since it produces real-time imaging and does not involve any ionizing radiation. These ultrasound techniques include:
X-ray KUB is another option and IVP (Intravenous Pyelography) for a more enhanced X-ray imaging of the urinary tract. IVP involves the introduction of contrast/dye through your blood vessels and a series of images are taken.
CT-KUB or CT-Stonogram or CT Stone Protocol may also be ordered for a more detailed and thin slice imaging with multi-planar and 3D reconstruction tracing the urine path from the kidneys to the ureters down to the bladder for better evaluation of any blockages, stones or calcifications, narrowing or dilation and any irregularities in the anatomy.
MR Urography/KUB & MRI of Prostate (for male) are very useful as well since it has better tissue contrast differentiation and high sensitivity to contrast enhancement.
It can provide information about tissue properties, diagnosis and staging of cancer, assessment of renal functions and most importantly it has no ionizing radiation.