Multi-detector CT urography: A one-stop renal and urinary tract imaging modality

Multi-detector computed tomography urography (CTU) is a robust imaging modality for evaluation of the kidneys and urinary tract. When compared to excretory urography (EU), CTU's superior contrast resolution appears to more effectively detect and characterize numerous benign and malignant conditions involving the kidneys, upper urinary tracts, and urinary bladder. While the concept of CTU has been utilized for nearly a decade, there is still no universally accepted technique. In fact, numerous articles evaluating various CTU techniques and associated ancillary maneuvers have been recently described in the literature. This review will discuss various indications, specific techniques, image reconstruction/reformatting, detection of pathology, and pitfalls related to CTU.