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Thin-section helical computed tomography of the bladder: initial clinical experience with virtual reality imaging
S Hussain1, J A Loeffler, R K Babayan
1Department of Radiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Massachusetts, USA.
Urology
|December 31, 1997
Summary
Virtual cystoscopy accurately detects bladder masses, including small ones, in patients with hematuria. This imaging technique shows promise as a complementary tool to conventional cystoscopy for bladder cancer diagnosis and monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Hematuria necessitates thorough bladder evaluation.
- Conventional cystoscopy is invasive and may have limitations in visualizing all mucosal surfaces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of virtual reality imaging of the bladder (virtual cystoscopy) for detecting bladder masses.
Main Methods:
- Thin-section helical CT of air-distended bladders was performed in six patients.
- Interactive intraluminal views were generated using volume-rendering algorithms (virtual cystoscopy).
- Virtual cystoscopy results were compared with conventional cystoscopy findings.
Main Results:
- Virtual cystoscopy successfully visualized all 26 bladder masses (100%) detected by conventional cystoscopy.
- Twelve masses measured less than 1 cm; all were transitional cell carcinomas.
- The procedure was well-tolerated with no complications.
Conclusions:
- Virtual cystoscopy is an accurate method for detecting intrinsic bladder masses.
- It can serve as a valuable adjunct to conventional cystoscopy for initial hematuria evaluation.
- This technique may also aid in surveillance after bladder tumor resection.