Dual-Source CT in Predicting and Treating Uric Acid Stones: A Retrospective and Prospective Study

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the clinical application of dual-source CT in analyzing and treating urinary tract stone components. Methods A retrospective study of 204 patients with upper urinary tract stones who underwent preoperative dual-source CT and postoperative infrared spectroscopic stone analysis. Preoperative CT parameters were compared to assess diagnostic efficacy. A prospective study selected 60 patients predicted to have uric acid stones by dual-source stone energy spectrum CT, divided into experimental and control groups. The control group received diet and exercise therapy, while the experimental group received additional sodium potassium hydroxy citrate to dissolve the stones. Results Retrospective study: 204 patients (159 males, 45 females, mean age 50.7 ± 14.3 years). Stone length diameter (13.4 ± 5.1) mm. Significant differences in CT values for different stone types, with uric acid stones having lower CT values. ROC curves indicated high accuracy for dual-source CT, particularly at 100 kV. Prospective study: 60 patients (32 males, 28 females, mean age 61.2 ± 11.8 years), 38 renal stones, 22 ureteral stones. Experimental group showed higher complete dissolution rate (80% vs. 20%), lower non-response rate (3.3% vs. 33.3%), and lower surgical treatment rate (3.3% vs. 30%) at three-month follow-up. Urine pH improved in the trial group, with no significant change in uric acid levels. Incidence of renal colic was slightly lower in the trial group. Dual-source CT accuracy for predicting uric acid stones was 96.7%. Conclusion Dual-source CT accurately predicts uric acid stones to guide treatment choices, improving patient outcomes and reducing surgery need.