Use of Nonprostate Ultrasound in Urology Practice

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Imaging
• Diagnostic Ultrasound

Background:

• Ultrasound imaging is vital in urology patient care.
• Limited mandated training exists for urology residents in ultrasound interpretation and technique.
• Transrectal ultrasound for prostate biopsy is the only current index case for ultrasound education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the current utilization of non-prostate ultrasound in urological practice.
• To assess the relevance of non-prostate ultrasound across different urology subspecialties and practice types.

Main Methods:

• Reviewed American Board of Urology certification and recertification logs from 2012-2014.
• Analyzed billing data for renal, scrotal, and penile ultrasound codes, excluding specific procedures.
• Correlated ultrasound usage with urologist demographics and practice types.

Main Results:

• 43% of 2,427 reviewed urologists billed for renal, scrotal, or penile ultrasound.
• Private practice urologists performed more non-prostate ultrasounds than academic urologists.
• Men performed more non-prostate ultrasounds than women (44% vs. 36%).

Conclusions:

• Renal and scrotal ultrasound are relevant for all urologists, irrespective of practice model or subspecialty.
• Graduating residents should receive training in renal and scrotal ultrasound, in addition to prostate ultrasound.
• Non-prostate ultrasound examinations are expected in contemporary urological practice.