Role of Dual Energy Computed Tomography in Evaluation of Renal Stones

Abstract Background: DECT is a new evolving technique used for in vivo prediction of renal stones chemical characterizations. Aim of Study: This study aims to assess the role of Dual Energy computed Tomography (DECT) in evaluation of renal stone compositions. Patients and Methods: This study is a prospective cohort study, it included 30 patients. Classic single energy examina-tions were done (100-120 kVp) followed by DECT performed by using a single-source dual energy with fast switching between two kilovoltages (80, 135 kVp). Results of DECT were then compared to crystallography. Results: (20 males and 10 females) with known renal stones, no age or sex predilection. The patient aged from (16) to (79) years From all the examined 37 stones, DECT predicted chemical composition of stones as 24 Ca oxalate stones, 8 uric acid stones and 5 cystine stones. DECT accurately iden-tified all uric acid stones. DECT recognized 2 stones as Ca oxalate and they were proven to be Ca phosphate by crystal-lography. DECT also failed to identify mixed compositions in 2 stones which were diagnosed as Ca oxalate and cystine stones. Statistical analysis revealed reliable agreement between DECT and crystallography with a (p-value) of >0.001 (highly significant). Conclusion: DECT was found as an effective and reliable method in pre-analysis of renal stones prior to management.