Computed tomographic evaluation of blunt renal injuries.

Abstract

Adequate radiologic demonstration of the extent of renal injury following blunt abdominal trauma is an important guide to therapy. The evaluation was previously based on urographic and/or angiographic studies. The results of computed tomographic (CT) evaluation of suspected renal injuries in 10 patients is reported. Renal injuries were demonstrated by CT in 9 of these patients. Abnormalities demonstrated were subcapsular/perinephric hematomas, intrarenal hematomas, renal lacerations, segmental infarcts and contrast material extravasation. Apparently CT is valuable in providing further definition of urographic abnormalities and in avoiding the necessity for angiography in otherwise stable patients.