Plain Radiograph and Ultrasound are complementary in the Diagnosis of Renal Tract Calculi

Abstract

Introduction: In Bangladesh, renal calculi are one of the most prevalent health issues among adults. Plain radiography and ultrasonography are both essential diagnostic methods for calculi, although their efficacy varies depending on a number of circumstances. Objective: To find out the effectiveness of plain radiograph and ultrasound to diagnose renal tract calculi. Methodology: This prospective observational study was done on 70 patients at Sher E Bangla Medical College Hospital (SBMCH) in the departments of radiology and imaging over a period of 24 months, from January 2018 to December 2020. Data was gathered by reviewing patient records and speaking with them in person. The data was then examined and displayed correctly.  Results: The mean age of the respondents was 43.70±9.75 years, and around 25 (36%) of them were within the age bracket of 41-50 years. The majority of responders (46.0%) were farmers. 50 (72%) reported stomach discomfort, 29 (42%) had an infection of the urinary system, and 13 (18%) had hematuria. For the diagnosis of renal tract calculi, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of plain radiographs were 87.30%, 14.28%, and 80%, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of ultrasound and their combination were 90.40%, 42.85%, 86.0% and 98.41%, 57.1%, and 98.41% respectively. Conclusion: Both ultrasound and plain radiographs are non-invasive, easy-to-use, inexpensive, and valuable diagnostic tools that can be used to make a correct diagnosis of renal tract calculi and complementary to each other.