Ces radiol. 2011, 65(4):251-255

Chemical analysis of kidney stones using dual-energy CT - our experienceOriginal article

Alena Bednářová¹, Jiří Ferda¹, Boris Kreuzberg¹, Jiří Klečka², Milan Hora²

¹ Klinika zobrazovacích metod LF UK a FN, Plzeň

² Urologická klinika LF UK a FN, Plzeň

Aim: To assess the degree of correlation between the results of chemical analysis of urolithiasis using dual energy computed tomography (DECT) with laboratory chemical analysis of stone, and to evaluate the contribution of this method to clinical practice.

Method: Total 67 patients underwent DECT in order to performe the chemical analysis of already known or suspected urolithiasis. To analyze the chemical composition of the stone using DECT, we used the simultaneous exposure to 140 kV and 80 kV. The obtained data were analyzed using software Syngo Siemens Dual Energy in program "Kidney Stones". The method of the analysis was based on a material decomposition algorithm. In 30 patients, the extraction ofthe stone followed and the chemical and crystalograpic analysis was made. The results of virtual chemical analysis and laboratory findings were compared.

Results: In the stones greater than 3 mm, sensitivity and specificity reached 100% using DECT analysis. In the case of very small stone disease (ie. less than 3 mm), the detection reached 100% accuracy, but the ability to differentiate the correct type of stone disease decreased to 97 %.

Conclusion: DECT analysis of urolithiasis shows the stones of size 3 mm with 100% match results in comparison with laboratory chemical analysis of urinary stones and therefore has great benefit for clinical practice, especially early in choosing the appropriate therapeutic procedure.

Keywords: three-material decomposition algorithm, urolithiasis, dual-energy computed tomography

Grants and funding:

Práce byla podpořena výzkumným záměrem MSM 0021620819.

Accepted: August 15, 2011; Published: December 1, 2011  Show citation