Radiologist Questions Kidney Stones

Are X-ray images always accurate?

My doctor was suspecting kidney stones but the the x-ray didn’t show anything. Are x-ray images always accurate?

5 Answers

RadiologistKidneyStones
No. The stones can be masked by bowel gas and the patient may need a USG /CT. Sometimes small stones may pass from the kidneys to the ureters. In that case, CT is the modality of choice.
CT without contrast is best for that.
Have a question aboutKidney Stones?Ask a doctor now
The best imaging modality for kidney stones is a CT scan without contrast.
No. They are not always accurate. The stone could be small and that’s why it's not visible on X-rays. CAT scan is more accurate for this.
Utica avid stones don’t show up as not calcified. Some calculus may be obscured by overlying bowel.