Aims: The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the relative efficacy of plain abdominal radiographs and detailed renal tract ultrasound (US) examination in the diagnosis and follow-up of children with renal tract calculi.
Methods: The records and imaging studies of 28 paediatric patients who had presented with proven renal tract calculi over a period of 5 years were examined.
Results: In 23 (82%) patients, US was the first investigation. All these patients also had plain radiographs. Plain radiographs were the first investigation in five (18%) patients. All renal calculi (100%) visible on plain films were demonstrated on US. Furthermore, detailed US often provided other clinically significant findings that were not apparent on plain films.
Conclusion: As a result of this study it is recommend that detailed US should be the investigation of choice in children with suspected renal tract calculi.