1 - Serviço de Radiologia, Hospital Dona Estefânia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Central, Lisboa, Portugal
2 - Serviço de Radiologia, Hospital Santa Marta, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Central, Lisboa, Portugal
- Apresentação poster no 57th European Society of Paediatric Radiology Annual Meeting
Introduction and objective: Contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ce-VUS) is a technique that utilizes sonographic contrast to study the lower urinary tract, particularly to detect vesicoureteral reflux. We aim to provide a review of the technique and imaging findings of ce-VUS studies based on the experience at our institution.
Material and Methods: Topic review based on bibliographical research and selection of case images from a paediatric university hospital. Whenever possible imaging findings are correlated with clinical data and other imaging studies.
Results: Vesicoureteral reflux is defined as an abnormal flow of urine from the bladder to the upper urinary tract and is an important factor for the development of upper urinary tract infections in children. In the past voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) has been considered the primary imaging method to study children with suspected vesicoureteral reflux. Ce-VUS has emerged as a technique comparable to VCUG. Its main advantage is the absence of ionising radiation, preventing long term detrimental effects. Occasionally, other abnormalities commonly associated with vesicoureteral reflux, such as duplication of the renal collecting system or posterior urethral valves, can be detected with ce-VUS. Key imaging findings are addressed and revised.
Conclusions: Ce-VUS is a valuable imaging tool to study vesicoureteral reflux and prevents children from being subjected to ionising radiation. Paediatric radiologists should be familiar with the technique and key imaging findings.
Palavras Chave: ce-VUS, Reflux, Review, Ultrasound, Vesicoureteral