Abstract
Purpose: To evaluate the accuracy of MR pyelography in the assessment of hydroureteronephrosis.
Material and Methods: One hundred and fifteen patients, with variable degree of hydroureteronephrosis demonstrated by US and urography were subjected to MR pyelography obtained by means of two ultra-fast sequences.
Results: Of the 228 kidneys examined, the collecting systems of 130 kidneys were dilated and correctly identified on MR pyelography, with only 2 false-positive results. The specificity of MR pyelography in detecting hydronephrosis was 98%. Accuracy in revealing level of obstruction was 100%. Sensitivity in detecting stones, strictures and congenital ureteropelvic junction obstructions was respectively 68.9%, 98.5% and 100%.
Conclusion: MR pyelography can rapidly and accurately depict the morphological features of dilated urinary tracts with information regarding the degree and level of obstruction, without using contrast medium or ionizing radiation.
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