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Transrectal ultrasonography compared with voiding cystourethrography after spinal cord injury
British Journal of Urology
|March 1, 1987
Summary
Transrectal ultrasonography and voiding cystourethrography (VCU) both image the bladder and urethra in spinal cord injury patients. VCU detected reflux and diverticula, while ultrasonography offered better soft tissue detail without radiation or contrast agents.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Radiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Spinal cord injury (SCI) can lead to significant bladder and urethral complications.
- Accurate imaging is crucial for diagnosing and managing these SCI-related urological issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the diagnostic utility of transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) with voiding cystourethrography (VCU) in patients with spinal cord injury.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving 27 patients with spinal cord injury.
- Both transrectal ultrasonography and voiding cystourethrography were performed on all participants.
Main Results:
- Both TRUS and VCU provided clear visualization of the bladder and posterior urethra.
- VCU uniquely identified ureteric reflux, intraprostatic reflux, and anterior urethral diverticula.
- TRUS excelled in visualizing soft tissue details and muscle contractions, not apparent on VCU.
- TRUS offered advantages including no radiation hazard, enabling prolonged observation, and eliminating the need for contrast media and catheterization.
Conclusions:
- Transrectal ultrasonography is a valuable, radiation-free imaging modality for assessing the bladder and urethra in SCI patients.
- While VCU remains essential for detecting specific abnormalities like reflux, TRUS provides complementary soft tissue and functional information.