Digital Techniques in Urology Diagnostics

The field of diagnostic radiology continues to evolve, particularly in refinements to cross-sectional techniques. Imaging of the urinary tract, as a result, has become more precise, with new digital procedures offering a great selection of options, and new imaging algorithms being implemented. Ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provide higher soft-tissue contrast resolution than conventional radiography, as well as multiplanar imaging capability, resulting in significant advances in almost all areas of uroradiology. While such advances have produced new algorithms to approach the diagnostic imaging evaluation, each particular case also depends greatly on the equipment and professional available. In summary, ever changing uroradiology remains indispensable in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with urologic disorders. We discuss the digital imaging techniques used in uroradiology, with summaries of the advantages and disadvantages of the various techniques, and will end with a discussion comparing different Doppler imaging methods.