[CONTRAST ENHANCED VOIDING UROSONOGRAPHY (CEVUS) IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF VESICOURETERAL REFLUX]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nephrology
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Urology

Background:

• Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a common congenital anomaly in children, potentially leading to reflux nephropathy (RN).
• RN can progress to chronic kidney disease, hypertension, and end-stage renal disease, necessitating early detection.
• Current VUR diagnostic methods raise concerns regarding radiation exposure and invasiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight contrast enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS) as an advanced diagnostic tool for VUR in pediatric patients.
• To emphasize the benefits of ceVUS, including its radiation-free nature and high sensitivity and specificity.
• To provide an alternative to traditional imaging modalities for VUR diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Utilizes ultrasound technology with contrast-specific software.
• Employs second-generation ultrasound contrast agents administered intravesically via a bladder catheter.
• A radiation-free imaging modality for evaluating VUR and urethral abnormalities.

Main Results:

• ceVUS demonstrates high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing VUR.
• It provides a safe and effective alternative to radiation-based imaging techniques.
• The procedure is well-tolerated by pediatric patients and their parents.

Conclusions:

• Contrast enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS) is a highly sensitive and radiation-free imaging modality for diagnosing VUR in children.
• ceVUS offers a valuable alternative to traditional methods, mitigating risks associated with radiation exposure.
• Early and accurate diagnosis of VUR using ceVUS can aid in timely management and improve patient prognosis.