Does computed tomographic scan affect diagnosis and management of patients with suspected renal colic?

Background: Patients with renal colic commonly present to the emergency department (ED) and are usually treated with analgesics, antiemetics and hydration. Computed tomographic (CT) scan is commonly utilized in evaluating patients with suspected renal colic.

Objectives: We compared diagnosis and treatment plans before and after CT in patients with suspected renal colic with the aim to evaluate how often changes in diagnosis, treatment and disposition are made.