Uro CT, also known as CT urography or urotomography, is an imaging exam that allows a detailed assessment of the entire urinary tract, including kidneys, ureters and bladder. It is a very useful technique for diagnosing stones, tumours and anatomical changes, and is fast, safe and highly accurate.
What is Uro CT and what is it for?
Uro CT is a computed tomography scan specifically for the study of the urinary system. It uses intravenous iodinated contrast to highlight the urinary tract and allow analysis of the functioning of the excretory system. This exam provides images in multiple phases, from the initial vascular phase to the excretory phase, giving a complete view of the urine’s path from the kidneys to the bladder.
CT urography is currently one of the reference techniques for the assessment of haematuria and complex urological disease.
How much does Uro CT cost?
The price of Uro CT when performed on a private basis is €200.
However, you can undergo Uro CT through several agreements, including:
- SNS / ARS: When Uro CT is performed through the SNS, the patient does not pay any amount (you must bring the Health Centre prescription);
- ADSE: If Uro CT is performed through ADSE, the patient only pays a fee of €32;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers. In this case, the price of the CT scan varies depending on the insurance you use.
- Health Plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans. In this case, the price of the CT scan varies depending on the health plan you use.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. For Uro CT, the protocol price is €140.
For this exam, the patient must bring a prescription for Abdominal CT + Pelvic CT.
How is it performed?
Uro CT is performed with the patient lying on a table that slides into the CT scanner. After intravenous administration of iodinated contrast, images are acquired in different phases to assess both renal vascularisation and the elimination of the contrast by the urinary tract. The exam has an average duration of 15 to 25 minutes.
NRD has a latest-generation Philips 128-slice scanner, which provides sharp images with a low radiation dose, ensuring safety and effectiveness in every exam.
What does it detect?
Uro CT is an exam that can detect several changes in the urinary tract, such as:
- Kidney stones and obstructions in the urinary tract (stones in the kidneys or ureters);
- Identifies congenital malformations of the urinary system;
- Assesses tumours in the kidneys, ureters and bladder;
- Investigates causes of haematuria (blood in the urine), both macroscopic and microscopic;
- Assesses inflammation, infections and renal changes, including pyelonephritis and scarring;
- Detects dilatations and other abnormalities of the urinary excretory tract;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Uro CT is usually requested by the doctor in situations such as:
- Investigation of haematuria (blood in the urine);
- Suspected urinary lithiasis or ureteral obstruction;
- Diagnosis or staging of tumours of the kidney, ureters or bladder;
- Study of congenital malformations of the urinary tract;
- Assessment of recurrent or complicated urinary infections;
- Surgical planning in urology;
- Among others.
Uro CT with Contrast
Uro CT is always performed with intravenous iodinated contrast, as this is essential to assess excretory function and identify lesions of the urinary system.
Injection of the contrast may cause a brief warm sensation or metallic taste, which quickly disappear. Fasting for 4 hours is usually required (you will be informed at the time of booking).
It is essential to inform the team about any known allergies (to medicines, foods, etc.), asthma, allergic rhinitis or previous reactions to contrast agents, as these situations may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Preparing for Uro CT
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper copy) | You should bring the exam prescription in paper format. |
| Fasting | If the exam is performed with contrast, you must fast for 4 hours. When the exam is performed without contrast, fasting is not required. |
| Arriving early | Generally, you only need to arrive 15 minutes before the exam, except when oral contrast will be used. In that case, you should arrive 1 to 2 hours before the exam (you will be informed at the time of booking). |
| Previous exams | You should bring any relevant previous exams. |
| Previous medical history | Keep in mind your previous medical history regarding allergies, cardio-respiratory and kidney diseases, and usual medication. |
| Water | If necessary or if you wish, you may drink water. |
NRD will provide you with all necessary instructions at the time of booking.
Instructions during the exam
- Remain still to avoid artefacts on the images;
- In certain exams (for example thoracic, abdominal or pelvic), you should follow the breathing instructions given by the NRD healthcare professional.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the CT scan results within up to 7 days after the exam, by email or in paper form at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take the CD with the images with you.
Where to have it done?
Uro CT can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (next to Praça de Espanha)