The Whitaker test is performed to differentiate obstructed from non-obstructed renal pelvis dilatation by:
- A Measuring pressure-flow relationship with antegrade perfusion of the renal pelvis ✓
- B Retrograde pyelography with contrast injection
- C Dynamic MAG3 renogram with furosemide augmentation
- D Diuretic-enhanced CT urography with split renal function measurement
Correct answer: A. Measuring pressure-flow relationship with antegrade perfusion of the renal pelvis
Explanation
The Whitaker test is an antegrade pressure-perfusion study where the renal pelvis is accessed percutaneously and saline is infused at 10 mL/min while measuring pelvic pressure. A pressure differential (renal pelvis pressure minus bladder pressure) greater than 22 cm H2O indicates obstruction, 13–22 cm H2O is equivocal, and below 13 cm H2O is non-obstructed. It provides a direct functional assessment of obstruction and is used when diuretic renography is equivocal.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
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