What CT can show
- The location and approximate size of a urinary stone
- Whether a stone is obstructing urine flow
- Swelling of the kidney caused by obstruction
- Alternative causes of abdominal or flank pain
- Anatomy relevant to treatment planning
When CT may be used
- Suspected renal colic in an adult
- Persistent or recurrent stone symptoms
- Uncertain findings after another investigation
- Planning treatment for a known stone
- Follow-up when the expected result will change management
Radiation and alternatives
- CT uses ionising radiation, so exposure should be justified and minimised
- Ultrasound is used instead of CT during pregnancy
- Ultrasound is first-line imaging for children and young people with suspected renal colic
- The imaging team selects the safest suitable protocol
How this fits your care: NICE recommends urgent low-dose non-contrast CT for adults with suspected renal colic, with ultrasound used instead during pregnancy and as first-line imaging for children and young people.
Discussing the next step
Mr Syed Ali Shahzad can review your symptoms, previous results and imaging before explaining whether this investigation is appropriate and how the result may affect treatment planning. Tests are arranged through the relevant hospital pathway.
Clinical information reference: NICE NG118: renal and ureteric stone imaging. This page provides general information and does not replace individual medical advice.