Carmina Duran MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Alfons Valera, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Anna Alguersuari, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Eva Ballesteros MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Maria Jose Del Rey Prieto MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

César Martin MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To describe and illustrate the use of contrast-enhanced cadence coherent pulse sequencing (CPS) voiding cystosonography for the study of the urethra.

105 consecutive patients with suspected vesicoureteral reflux underwent cystosonography and contrast-enhanced (LevovistR) voiding US. Examinations were performed using Acuson Sequoia 512 ultrasound systems with CPS technology, a specific imaging mode based on standard phase-inversion technology that displays a color overlay over conventional B-mode images. The contrast-enhanced CPS scan was performed in real time (14 frames/s) using low mechanical index (0.16) and 6MHz convex or 14MHz linear transducers.

The transperineal (14MHz, 15 patients) or combined transperineal and transpelvic (6MHz, 50 patients) approaches were used. The bladder neck and the entire urethra were seen in all males (n=65, mean age=6 months). Findings were normal in 63 patients, without differences > 2mm in the posterior and anterior urethra. Posterior urethral valves were detected in one patient and a prostatic diverticulum in another. Both were confirmed by voiding cystourethrography

CPS technology and the technique used provide diagnostic-quality images and facilitate the examination; this will ensure greater acceptance by professionals involved in genitourinary pathology and replace voiding cystourethrography as the diagnostic method of choice, thereby avoiding ionizing radiation

Contrast-enhanced voiding cystosonography can replace voiding cystourethrography as the diagnostic method of choice, thereby avoiding ionizing radiation.

Duran, C, Valera, A, Alguersuari, A, Ballesteros, E, Prieto, M, Martin, C, Imaging of the Urethra with Contrast-enhanced Cystosonography.  Radiological Society of North America 2007 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 25 - November 30, 2007 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2007/5002943.html