[Endosonography of the ureter--initial experience with a new method]

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Imaging
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• The ureter requires detailed imaging for various urological procedures.
• Current imaging techniques may have limitations in specific intraureteral assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel intraureteral sensing unit for ultrasonographic examination of the ureter.
• To explore its utility in different surgical approaches and conditions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a new intraureteral sensing unit in four patients.
• Applied the unit via ascendent and descendent approaches.
• Investigated its use during percutaneous lithotripsy and ureterotomy.

Main Results:

• Successfully obtained ultrasonographic images of the entire ureter.
• Demonstrated feasibility of both ascendent and descendent applications.
• Explored peroperative ureteral visualization.

Conclusions:

• The intraureteral sensing unit provides valuable ultrasonographic data of the ureter.
• The method is potentially useful for pre-endopyelotomy renal vessel assessment in hydronephrosis.
• Further application in urological interventions is anticipated.