Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine, ex vivo, the limitations of spiral computed tomography (CT) in the detection of renal stones.
Material and methods: Twelve fragments of calcium oxalate stones, 1 to 10 millimetres in diameter, were introduced into 3 porcine kidneys. Spiral CT was then performed on these kidneys.
Results: All stones, regardless of their dimensions, were detected with a sensitivity and specificity of 100%. Measurement of these stones on spiral CT showed a magnification factor and a distortion phenomenon which varied according to the table speed and collimation.
Conclusion: In this study, spiral CT demonstrated excellent performances in the detection of renal stones, even for the smallest stones, measuring 1 mm in diameter.