Computed tomography of the lower urinary tract and pelvis

Despite its limitations, CT scanning is of significant value in evaluating the lower urinary tract and pelvis. Its major role in imaging the ureter involves the confirmation or further characterization of causes of obstruction or deviation of the ureter by tumor masses or vascular abnormalities. It is also useful in the evaluation of radiolucent filling defects found at urography and can help to delineate extraluminal extension of disease. The major role played by CT in evaluation of the bladder and prostate gland involves the staging of malignancy, especially in assessing of lymphadenopathy and distant metastases, in suggesting tumor involvement in adjacent tissue, and evaluating secondary complications such as renal obstruction. CT is also helpful in evaluating some nonneoplastic conditions of the bladder and prostate gland, particularly inflammatory lesions and continent urinary diversion.