Publication

CT-calculometry (CT-CM): advanced NCCT post-processing to investigate urinary calculi

Journal Paper/Review - Sep 25, 2017

Units
PubMed
Doi

Citation
Zumstein V, Betschart P, Hechelhammer L, Schmid H, Abt D, Müller-Gerbl M. CT-calculometry (CT-CM): advanced NCCT post-processing to investigate urinary calculi. World J Urol 2017; 36:117-123.
Type
Journal Paper/Review (English)
Journal
World J Urol 2017; 36
Publication Date
Sep 25, 2017
Issn Electronic
1433-8726
Pages
117-123
Brief description/objective

PURPOSE
This study aimed at evaluating the potential of CT-calculometry (CT-CM) as a novel method to determine mineralisation, composition, homogeneity and volume of urinary calculi based on preoperative non-contrast-enhanced computed tomography (NCCT) scans.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
CT-CM was performed in preoperative NCCTs of 25 patients treated for upper tract urinary calculi by ureterorenoscopy or percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Absolute mineralisation values were achieved by use of quantitative CT-osteoabsorptiometry and compared to Fourier infrared spectroscopy as a reference for stone composition. Homogeneity was assessed by advanced software-based NCCT post-processing and visualised by using a maximum intensity projection algorithm. Volumetric measurement was performed by software-based three-dimensional reconstruction.

RESULTS
CT-CM was feasible in all of the 25 NCCTs. Absolute mineralisation values calculated by quantitative CT-OAM might be used to identify the most frequent stone types. High levels of inhomogeneity could be detected even in pure component stones. Volumetric measurement could be performed with minimal effort.

CONCLUSIONS
CT-CM is based on advanced NCCT post-processing software and represents a novel and promising approach to determine mineralisation, composition, homogeneity and volume of urinary calculi based on preoperative NCCT. CT-CM could provide valuable information to predict outcome of different stone treatment methods.