Real-time, multiplanar computerized tomography: a new diagnostic modality used in the detection and endoscopic removal of a distal ureteral fibroepithelial polyp and adjacent calculus.

Ureteral fibroepithelial polyps are rare benign mesodermal tumors that occur predominantly in the upper ureter. We report on a patient with a fibroepithelial polyp in the distal ureter that resulted in entrapment of a calculus and partial obstruction of the collecting system. Preoperatively, diagnosis by standard radiographic methods, such as excretory urogram, retrograde pyelogram and conventional computerized tomography with and without contrast enhancement, was not possible because of the close proximity of the fibroepithelial polyp, the ureteral calculus and calcifications in the adjacent internal iliac artery. The new diagnostic modality of real-time, multiplanar computerized tomography imaging using the Sun/Pixar computer system and the 2D/3D Orthotool software was used to make the correct preoperative assessment. Subsequently, the patient underwent ureteroscopic resection of the polyp and extraction of the calculus. A year later she was free of symptoms and there was no evidence of regrowth of the polyp. To our knowledge this is the first report to describe the use of real-time, multiplanar computerized tomography imaging as an effective diagnostic modality in the genitourinary tract. In addition, this is the first ureteral fibroepithelial polyp reported in the literature to be associated with a ureteral calculus and to be excised endoscopically with no recurrence on long-term followup.