A Non-Invasive Monitoring of Bulking Agent with 3D Ultrasonography: a Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Medical imaging
• Urology
• Gynecology

Background:

• Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) affects many women.
• Bulking agent injection is a treatment option for SUI.
• Optimizing bulking agent placement is crucial for treatment success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify three-dimensional ultrasound (3D ultrasound) parameters linked to successful bulking agent injection for SUI.
• To review current literature on 3D ultrasound in SUI management.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review of Medline, Scopus, and Embase databases.
• Keywords: 3D ultrasound, bulking agent.
• Included studies: cohort, observational, reviews (2001-2025).

Main Results:

• Five studies with 202 patients were included.
• Circumferential or horseshoe-shaped distribution of the bulking agent.
• Proximal or proximal and mid-urethral location of the bulking agent.

Conclusions:

• 3D ultrasound shows promise as a tool for managing SUI with bulking agents.
• Specific distribution patterns are associated with better outcomes.
• Further research is needed to confirm these findings.