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[3D endosonography to clarify distal ureteral processes].
S C Krämer1, B Volkmer, R Mattes
1Radiologische Universitätsklinik Ulm. Stefan.kraemer@medizin.uni-ulm.de
Rofo : Fortschritte Auf Dem Gebiete Der Rontgenstrahlen Und Der Nuklearmedizin
|June 17, 1999
Summary
Three-dimensional endoluminal sonography effectively diagnoses lower ureteral pathologies, even when initial IVP results are negative. This imaging technique offers a promising, less invasive alternative for suspected ureteral obstructions.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Medical Imaging
- Diagnostic Sonography
Background:
- Lower ureteral pathologies can present with ambiguous symptoms.
- Intravenous pyelography (IVP) may yield negative findings despite suspected ureteral obstruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate 3D endoluminal sonography for diagnosing distal ureteral pathologies.
- To assess its utility in cases with inconclusive IVP results.
Main Methods:
- 36 consecutive patients with suspected ureteral obstruction and negative IVP underwent transrectal or transvaginal 3D endosonography.
- Patient mean age was 63 years, presenting with colic pain and miction disturbances.
Main Results:
- 3D endosonography provided a diagnosis in 86% (31/36) of patients.
- Identified causes included ureteral calculi (23), urological tumors (5), rectal carcinoma (2), and gynecological tumors (1).
- 5 patients required CT/MRI or ureteroscopy for definitive diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- 3D endoluminal sonography demonstrates encouraging diagnostic accuracy for distal ureteral pathologies.
- It is recommended as a preceding diagnostic step before invasive procedures or costly imaging when IVP is negative.