Correlation of three-dimensional computerized tomographic renal parenchymal volumetry with DTPA split renal function in prospective donors - A retrospective study

Introduction: Split renal function (SRF) in prospective renal donors is traditionally measured by means of scintigraphy. Recent studies have reported the utility of three-dimensional computerized tomographic renal volumetry as an alternative to scintigraphy in estimating SRF. As computed tomography (CT) angio is done routinely for donors use of the same CT for estimating renal functions can eliminate the radiation from scintigraphy. Methods: In our study, renal volume was estimated on computerized tomographic renal angiography images using Siemens volumetry software by drawing contours manually on images, wherein we found the mean total renal volume to be 212.7 +/- 38 CC and mean split renal volume to be 49.76 CC +/- 2.86 and 50.23CC +/- 2.86 on the right and left side, respectively. Results: This split renal volume was corrected to body mass index and surface area wherein we found significant correlation between renal volume and function when both were corrected to body surface area (P < 0.0001). Conclusion: From our results, it appears that computerized tomographic renal angiography not only depicts anatomy but also can give information about renal function which needs further confirmation.