[The diagnostic value of digital and conventional imaging in intravenous urography].

PURPOSE

To compare image quality of digital luminescence radiography with conventional film-screen techniques during excretion urography. Four field tests and ROC analysis for determining diagnostic value.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

135 patients were included in a prospective study. Three independent observers judged the five minute (59 cases) or ten minute (76 cases) films after contrast injection using digital images as well as corresponding conventional images (five minutes-76 cases, ten minutes-59 cases).

RESULTS

The digital technique provided better information concerning the renal parenchyma, the soft tissues and bone structures. Contrast enhanced detail was demonstrated equally well by both systems. The two systems had similar sensitivity but digital radiography showed higher specificity.