Clinical significance of sonography of the ureter.

The relevance of sonography compared with conventional methods is demonstrated by means of 103 patients investigated with obstruction of the ureter. The knowledge of the exact topographic anatomy of the ureter in all sections enables the experienced investigator to demonstrate cause and position of ureteral obstruction by sonography in up to 75% of cases. Ultrasound is not sufficiently accurate to be used as the primary modality, but could be the initial modality in specific circumstances such as pregnancy, children or patients with a history of reaction to contrast media.