Role of Helical Nonenhanced Computed Tomography in the Evaluation of Acute Flank Pain

ObjectiveTo evaluate the role of helical nonenhanced computed tomography (NECT) in the diagnosis of acute flank pain.MethodsSeventy-five consecutive patients were analysed retrospectively for profile, loin pain, urine analysis and NECT findings. Diagnostic accuracy of NECT for urolithiaisis was calculated. The value of combined microhaematuria and NECT in the diagnosis of flank pain was also highlighted. The potential for identifying phleboliths and alternative diagnoses on NECT was also explored.ResultsThere were 46 males and 29 females with an average age of 42.2 years. Forty-four patients presented with acute left flank pain. NECT carries a sensitivity and specificity of 96% for the diagnosis of stone disease. Combined with microhaematuria, NECT has 100% accuracy in picking up urinary tract stones.ConclusionNECT is the first imaging investigation of choice for the evaluation of patients presenting to the emergency department with flank pain and suspected renal colic.