Spontaneous rupture of the renal pelvis due to an obstructing ureteral calculus diagnosed by point-of-care ultrasound

Abstract

Abstract A 37-year-old man presented to the emergency department with left flank pain and vomiting. Bedside ultrasound performed by the treating emergency physician revealed left-sided hydronephrosis and perinephric fluid, suggesting a rupture of the renal pelvis. Urinary sonography revealed an absent left ureteral jet, suggesting left ureteral obstruction. Treatment was initiated and a non-contrast computed tomography scan confirmed the initial ultrasound findings.