shu-508 and Vesico-Ureteral-Reflux

Voiding urosonography (VUS) encompasses examination of the urinary tract with intravesical administration of US contrast agent (UCA) for diagnosis of vesicoureteric reflux (VUR). The real breakthrough for US examination of VUR came with the availability of stabilized UCAs in the mid-1990s. This article presents a comprehensive review of various procedural aspects of VUS. Different US modalities are available for detecting the echogenic microbubbles: fundamental mode, colour Doppler US, harmonic imaging and dedicated contrast imaging with multiple display options. The reflux is graded (1 to 5) in a similar manner to the system used in voiding cystourethrography (VCUG). The most commonly used UCA for VUS, Levovist, is galactose-based and contains air-filled microbubbles. The recommended concentration is 300 mg/ml at a dose of 5-10%, or less than 5%, of the bladder filling volume when using fundamental or harmonic imaging modes, respectively. There are preliminary reports of VUS using a second-generation UCA, SonoVue. Here the UCA volume is less than 1% of the bladder filling volume. There is no specific contraindication to intravesical administration of UCA. The safety profile of intravesical Levovist is very high with no reports of side effects over a decade of use in VUS.

Topics: Child; Contrast Media; Humans; Microbubbles; Phospholipids; Polysaccharides; Sulfur Hexafluoride; Ultrasonography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

Studies comparing voiding urosonography (VUS) with voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) and direct radionuclide cystography (DRNC) were analyzed and detailed tables demonstrating the diagnostic values and grading of vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) are presented. Comparative studies of DRNC were too few and did not allow definite conclusions. Using VCUG as the reference, the results of VUS were as follows: sensitivity 57-100%, specificity 85-100%, positive/negative predictive values 58-100%/87-100%, respectively, and diagnostic accuracy 78-96%. With the exception of two studies the diagnostic accuracy reported was 90% and above. In 19% of pelviureteric units (PUUs) the diagnosis was made only by VUS and in 10% only by VCUG. Thus in 9% of PUUs more refluxes were detected using VUS. In 73.6% the reflux grades were concordant in VUS and VCUG. Reflux grade was found to be higher with VUS than with VCUG in 19.6% of PUUs. In 71.2% of PUUs with grade I reflux on VCUG, the reflux was found to be grade II and higher on VUS. The common selection criteria for VUS as the primary examination for VUR currently include (a) follow-up studies, (b) first examination for VUR in girls, and (c) screening high-risk patients.

Topics: Child; Contrast Media; Humans; Phospholipids; Polysaccharides; Predictive Value of Tests; Radiography; Radionuclide Imaging; Sensitivity and Specificity; Sulfur Hexafluoride; Ultrasonography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

The objective of this case report is to demonstrate the possibility of visualizing intrarenal reflux (IRR) in children using contrast-enhanced harmonic voiding urosonography (VUS). A 10-month-old girl underwent VUS as part of the work-up of acute pyelonephritis of the right kidney. Before and after intravesical administration of US contrast medium (Levovist) the urinary tract was scanned in harmonic imaging mode. Bilateral vesicoureteric reflux was detected (right grade IV, left grade III). Moreover, at the height of the reflux the right kidney parenchyma turned markedly echogenic, corresponding to massive IRR. The voiding cystourethrography that followed confirmed the results of the VUS.

Topics: Contrast Media; Female; Humans; Infant; Kidney Diseases; Polysaccharides; Pyelonephritis; Ultrasonography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

Conventionally, vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) is assessed by fluoroscopic micturating cystourethrography (MCU) or direct or indirect radionuclide cystography (RNC). There is preliminary experience with contrast-enhanced sonography for the detection of VUR.. To evaluate the usefulness of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography using galactose suspension as an echogenic contrast medium.. In this study a galactose suspension was instilled into the bladder in 58 neonates, infants and children along with normal saline to detect the presence and the severity of VUR through the enhanced US signal. The results were compared with those of MCU and RNC. One ml/kg of echocontrast in the neonatal age group, and 0.5 ml/kg thereafter, were slowly instilled through a 4-F catheter after preliminary supine and prone urinary tract US. Indications for the investigation were antenatally diagnosed pyelectasis (21 cases) and pyelonephritis (37 cases). In 38 patients echocontrast cystosonography (ECS) was performed before, and in 20 patients after, MCU or RNC.. ECS detected 76 refluxing units in 50 patients. In eight patients, no VUR was shown, and none of these developed a urinary tract infection in 18 months of follow-up. In 43 patients, MCU or RNC detected 62 refluxing units, while in 15 no VUR was shown. Taking MCU as the gold standard and using the same grading scale, the sensitivity of ECS was 100 %. No side effects were observed. Several urinary tract abnormalities were detected by ECS. The male urethra was studied by ECS, both by retrograde infusion and during micturition.. ECS is a promising imaging technique for detecting and grading VUR without exposing patients to ionising radiation.

Topics: Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Evaluation Studies as Topic; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Male; Palmitic Acid; Polysaccharides; Sodium Chloride; Ultrasonography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

Voiding urosonography (VUS) is established as a technique for detecting vesicoureteral reflux in children.. To evaluate the quality of images of the entire urinary tract when using a second-generation US contrast agent and a modified VUS technique.. We evaluated 307 VUS examinations performed using SonoVue® in 591 pelvi-ureter units in 295 children of mean age, 27.1 (S.D., 42.5) months, with 154 (50.2%) of the examinations performed in boys; 58 children also underwent VUS using Levovist®. Three criteria were used for quality assessment of the bladder image: (1) progressive incorporation of contrast material in the bladder, (2) homogeneous bladder-filling to maximum capacity, and (3) visualisation of the posterior bladder wall.. Criterion 1 was fulfilled in 305 (99.3%), criterion 2 in 304 (99%) and criterion 3 in 304 (99%) studies. In children who underwent VUS with both contrast agents, the concordance between the two techniques was moderate for findings in the bladder (Cohen K = 0.487; P < 0001) and perfect for findings in the male urethra.. By a modified technique we obtained high-quality images of the bladder with the second-generation contrast agent.

Topics: Adolescent; Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Female; Humans; Image Enhancement; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Male; Polysaccharides; Reproducibility of Results; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography; Urethra; Urinary Bladder; Urination; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

Topics: Albumins; Carcinoma, Hepatocellular; Cholangiocarcinoma; Contrast Media; Diagnosis, Differential; Fluorocarbons; Humans; Image Enhancement; Liver Neoplasms; Microbubbles; Phospholipids; Polysaccharides; Sulfur Hexafluoride; Ultrasonography, Interventional; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

Voiding urosonography (VUS) has proved to be a reliable method for the study of vesicoureteric reflux (VUR). Early reports considered it inadequate for imaging the male urethra.. To determine the usefulness of contrast-enhanced VUS for the study of the urethra.. A total of 208 children aged 2 days to 10 years underwent VUS to confirm or exclude VUR for different reasons (n = 150) or for follow-up (n = 58). Patients with unconfirmed suspicion of VUR (99 boys and 51 girls) also underwent VUS for the study of the urethra. Examinations were performed using a harmonic imaging mode specific for contrast (Levovist) enhancement. We used a 6-4-MHz convex probe and a transperineal and/or a transpelvic approach.. The neck of the bladder and the entire urethra were visualized in all patients (n = 150). The male urethra was considered normal in 95 boys (95.95%). We diagnosed posterior urethral valves in two patients, diverticulum of the prostatic utricle in one, and diverticulum of the anterior urethra in one. All abnormal cases were confirmed using conventional voiding cystourethrography.. VUS can replace voiding cystourethrography as the method of choice for the initial study of suspected VUR in children.

Topics: Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Humans; Image Enhancement; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Male; Polysaccharides; Radiography; Reproducibility of Results; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography; Urethra; Urinary Bladder; Urination; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

Contrast-enhanced sonographic reflux diagnosis, i. e. voiding urosonography (VUS), is gradually becoming an alternative for diagnostic imaging of vesicoureteric reflux (VUR). A limiting factor for the widespread application of VUS is the cost of the US contrast agents. The development of new US contrast agents and the possibility of reducing the administered dose are expected to lower the cost. The aim of this study was an in-vitro comparison of the new US contrast agent (SonoVue) and the routinely used contrast agent Levovist, while taking into consideration the physical-chemical properties relevant for reflux diagnosis.. The in-vitro experiment setup simulated the in-vivo VUS. The US modalities fundamental and harmonic imaging (THI/ECI, Sonoline Elegra, Siemens) were utilized, the latter with both low and high mechanical indices (MI). SonoVue was tested in concentrations of 0.25 %, 0.5 % and 1 % and Levovist at 5 % volume. The in-vitro contrast duration served as the parameter for comparison. This was defined as the time from the start of the experiment until the time when more than 50 % of the image area was free of microbubbles.. The use of different concentrations of SonoVue did not have any impact on the contrast duration. The contrast duration of SonoVue turned out to be significantly longer when the US modality was switched from low to high MI. In the case of THI with high MI as is routinely with Levovist, the contrast duration of Levovist at a concentration of 5 % was 1.1 min, whereas that of SonoVue at a concentration of 1 % reached 7.3 min. This means that despite SonoVue being administered at a dose five times lower than that of Levovist, the in-vitro contrast duration increased by more than 80 %. Moreover, a freshly prepared suspension of SonoVue did not show change in the contrast duration for nearly 6 hours. In the case of Levovist there was a significant reduction in the contrast duration after only a half hour.. The in-vivo use of SonoVue is expected to yield a significant dose reduction so that one vial can be used for more than one examination. A measurable cost reduction can consequently be achieved.

Topics: Contrast Media; Humans; Image Enhancement; Phantoms, Imaging; Phospholipids; Polysaccharides; Reproducibility of Results; Sensitivity and Specificity; Sulfur Hexafluoride; Ultrasonography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether a second cycle of contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (VUS) with no added contrast medium (CM) can increase the detection rate of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). One hundred twelve consecutive children with a mean age of 2.9 years with 224 kidney-ureter units (KUU) underwent two cycles of contrast-enhanced harmonic VUS. The first cycle of VUS was performed with 3.5-12.5 ml of suspension 300 mg/ml SH U 508 A and was followed immediately by a second cycle with only saline without adding CM. VUR was detected in 57 KUU from 44 children (39%) at the first cycle of VUS. Eight of the remaining 68 non-refluxing children (12%) demonstrated VUR at the second cycle (P=0.045). Most cases of missed reflux at the first cycle were grade II (75%). However, in two KUU from two children missed reflux was grade III. In one child reflux (grade II) was missed on the second cycle. Comparing the second cycle of VUS with the first cycle, concordant findings regarding the presence or absence as well as the grade of reflux were found in 94% of KUU. A second cycle of contrast-enhanced harmonic VUS with no added CM discloses significantly more cases of VUR at no additional cost for the examination.

Topics: Adolescent; Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Greece; Humans; Image Enhancement; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Male; Microbubbles; Polysaccharides; Sensitivity and Specificity; Severity of Illness Index; Ultrasonography, Interventional; Urination; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

Voiding urosonography (VUS) using a microbubble contrast agent has been introduced as an alternative technique in the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). This study was undertaken to assess if phase inversion ultrasound (PIUS), a recent microbubble specific imaging technique, has advantages over fundamental in VUS and if it allows a reduction of contrast agent dose. Forty-three children with suspected VUR (aged 3 days-12 years, average of 3.9 years) with 92 kidney-ureter units (KUU) were included. Everyone obtained a baseline US scan that was followed by VUS using Levovist as the contrast agent. Constant switching between fundamental and PIUS performed the enhanced part for comparison. Every child underwent VCUG immediately afterwards. Contrast enhancement was stronger and longer lasting on PIUS than on fundamental US in all 43 cases. Reflux was detected in a total of 21 KUU, out of 92 KUU (23%). PIUS revealed VUR in 18; fundamental in 14 KUU and VCUG depicted 16 cases of reflux (p> or =0.29). The mean volume of Levovist dose administered to the bladder was 7.4+/-3.4% of the bladder volume. VUS using PI mode provided considerably stronger and longer enhancement and slightly improved the detection of VUR. It allowed a reduction of contrast dose and cost by approximately 35% over current dose recommendations for fundamental US.

Topics: Child; Child, Preschool; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Male; Microbubbles; Polysaccharides; Prospective Studies; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

The availability of US (ultrasonography) contrast media in the last few years has prompted investigation into their use in the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in children, a common cause of urinary tract infections (UTI) or pyelonephritis. We performed voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) and cystosonography (CSG) in the same session in 158 children (M/F 97/61, mean age 3.9 years, age range 0.1-12.7 years) with clinical suspicion of VUR, studied over a year with an ATL plus 3000 real-time scanner (ATL Ultrasound, Bothell, USA), equipped with 2- to 4- and 4- to 7-MHz convex transducers. US contrast medium Levovist (Schering, Berlin, Germany) was used. VCUG and CSG diagnosed 74 (24.2%) and 77 (25.2%) cases of VUR, respectively. There was no agreement in 67 cases (22%). The percentage of false negatives was similar and high with both techniques. CSG seems to be more sensitive in detecting intermediate (second- and third-degree) VUR. In spite of the moderate relative diagnostic adequacy of both methods, we believe that CSG is an alternative to VCUG, avoiding the risk of ionizing radiation, in the following conditions: (1) first diagnosis in females (not in males, due to the poor vesical and urethral anatomical detail it provides), (2) VUR follow-up, (3) VUR diagnosis in megaureters and/or in ureteroceles, and (4) VUR diagnosis in transplanted kidneys. Further improvements of CSG, both in US contrast media and in US technique, could possibly increase its sensitivity.

Topics: Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; False Negative Reactions; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Kidney; Male; Polysaccharides; Sensitivity and Specificity; Sex Characteristics; Ultrasonography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

The sonographic diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux with intravesical administration of ultrasound contrast media is on the rise. In few cases did we encounter rapid dissolution of microbubbles in the bladder filled with normal saline. The aim of this study was to find out whether there is any interaction between normal saline and ultrasound contrast media and, if so, to elucidate the cause for the interaction. In an in vitro experimental setup the mixtures of various normal saline solutions and a galactose-based ultrasound contrast medium (Levovist) were scanned under pre-defined parameters. The duration of contrast was determined. Oxygen concentration of the solutions was measured (pO(2) and O(2) mg/l). The US contrast medium had significantly longer contrast duration when mixed with normal saline from plastic containers rather than glass containers. The contrast duration difference was even more between normal saline from containers sealed under vacuum and those not sealed under vacuum: 0.7 and 12 min, respectively. The oxygen concentration in normal saline from vacuum-sealed containers is one-third or less that from non-vacuum-sealed containers. The high concentration of dissolved oxygen in the normal saline seems to prevent the diffusion of air from the microbubbles into the solution and thus their collapse. Desaturated normal saline has detrimental effect on microbubbles of the galactose-based US contrast medium. For the purpose of filling the bladder during contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography only normal saline solution from non-vacuum-sealed containers should be used. For practical purposes, normal saline from plastic containers is safest.

Topics: Administration, Intravesical; Contrast Media; Drug Interactions; Humans; Oxygen; Partial Pressure; Phantoms, Imaging; Polysaccharides; Sodium Chloride; Ultrasonography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (VUS) and voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) during simultaneous performance of both examinations.. A total of 24 children, 16 girls and 8 boys, with a mean age of 3.5 years referred for reflux examination were recruited for the study. After transurethral bladder catheterization, radiographic contrast medium, followed directly by the US contrast medium, were administered. Fluoroscopic VCUG and VUS were carried out concurrently in the same patient. When 1 kidney was scanned by ultrasound, fluoroscopy was performed on the contralateral side.. In 19 of the 47 kidney-ureter-units (KUU) vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) was detected. In 16 units the reflux was detected by both VCUG and VUS. In 3 KUUs the reflux was detected only at VCUG. All 3 cases were grade 1. Taking the VCUG as the reference standard, VUS had 84% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% and 90% positive and negative predictive values, respectively.. A dependable comparison could be achieved by performing VCUG and VUS at the same time and under the same conditions. It reconfirmed that VUS is reliable in the exclusion or verification of reflux.

Topics: Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Female; Fluoroscopy; Humans; Iopamidol; Kidney; Male; Polysaccharides; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography; Ureter; Urination; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

To evaluate the diagnostic potential of voiding urosonography (VUS) compared with fluoroscopic voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) under identical conditions and to evaluate potential reasons for false-negative VUS results, particularly regarding bladder concentrations of the US contrast agent, Levovist.. Fifty-six paediatric patients (M/F 34/22, mean age 2.3 y, age range 1 mo-14 y) underwent simultaneous VUS and VCUG under identical conditions. The bladder was filled by simultaneous administration of Levovist and the X-ray contrast medium, DIP Conray. Levovist concentrations in bladders were calculated using amounts of Levovist injected and total DIP Conray infused when reflux was first observed in either procedure.. Sensitivities of VUS and VCUG for detection of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) were both 86%, assuming that VUR detected by either method represented a true-positive, and no reflux by either method represented a true-negative. Patients under 24-mo of age displayed a better VUS sensitivity, of 94%. Levovist concentrations in bladders ranged from 1.8% to 23%, with older children tending to demonstrate increased bladder capacity and lower concentration. All VUS false-negative units displayed Levovist bladder concentrations of less than 5%.. The present simultaneous study suggests that: 1) the two techniques demonstrate similar sensitivity for detection of reflux; 2) sustained Levovist bladder concentrations of below 5% may not allow detection of reflux on VUS; and 3) VUS represents a suitable technique, particularly for small children whose bladder capacity is not so large.

Topics: Adolescent; Child; Child, Preschool; Diagnostic Imaging; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Iothalamic Acid; Male; Polysaccharides; Radiography; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography; Urethra; Urinary Bladder; Urinary Tract; Urination; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

The sonographic diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) with contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (VUS) is gradually increasing. With the introduction of VUS as part of the routine diagnostic imaging modalities for reflux significant reduction in the number of voiding cystourethrographies (VCUG) was possible. Like in VCUG grading of reflux in VUS is becoming more and more relevant. The aim of this study was to find out if there are any sonomorphologic and sonomorphometric parameters that would correlate with reflux grading in VCUG. Furthermore, a reflux grading system for VUS is proposed and the correlation of this grading system tested with the one of VCUG.. In one examination session a total of 186 children underwent both VUS and VCUG of whom 89 had VUR in at least one and the same kidney-ureter-unit (KUU) in both diagnostic imagings. The VUS was conducted with intravesical administration of ultrasound (US) contrast medium (Levovist). Ureteral and pelvicalyceal dilatations before administration of US contrast medium and during reflux were documented. Renal pelvic diameter was measured. The density of microbubbles in the renal pelves was scored on a scale of 1-3 (low to high). A grading system for reflux in VUS was set up similar to the international reflux grading system for VCUG with the addition of one more differentiation parameter, namely whether the reflux was primarily in a dilated or non-dilated urinary tract. Reflux grades in VUS were compared with those in VCUG.. None of the sonomorphologic and sonomorphometric parameters demonstrated any clear cut finding that would simplify reflux grading in VUS. In 59/95 (62%) KUUs the reflux grades were the same in both examinations. In 10/95 (11%) and 26/95 (27%) KUUs, the reflux was graded lower or higher, respectively, in VUS than in VCUG. Fifty-seven percent were in a primarily dilated system and the remaining 43% in a non-dilated one. Seventy percent of KUUs diagnosed as having grade I reflux in VCUG, showed as grade 2 on VUS.. A reflux grading system similar to the one used in VCUG can be applied in VUS. Adding the parameter reflux into a primarily dilated or non-dilated ureter and/or pelvicalyceal system may bring in a further dimension to the reflux grading in VUS. Most of the refluxes labelled as grade I in VCUG are actually grade II or higher.

Topics: Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Female; Humans; Male; Polysaccharides; Radiography; Ultrasonography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of fluoroscopic voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) and voiding urosonography (VUS) under identical conditions. We performed VUS and VCUG simultaneously with the total time for both examinations taking no longer than the time required for either examination individually.. X-ray contrast medium and echo-contrast agent were mixed together in vitro, and echogenicity of the mixture was confirmed. A clinical study was then performed on 33 children who had a history of urinary tract infection. The bladder was filled using simultaneous administration of X-ray contrast medium and echo-contrast agent. VCUG and VUS were then performed simultaneously and evaluated separately by two specialists.. Equivalent results were obtained for the two examinations in 61 of 66 renal tracts. Sensitivities of VUS and VCUG for the detection of VUR were 86% and 79%, respectively. The average time from catheterization to the completion of the study was 9.1 minutes - approximately as long as performing VCUG alone.. First, the present simultaneous study is superior to previous comparisons, because the two examinations were performed under identical physiologic conditions. Second, our results suggest that the two techniques demonstrate similar sensitivity in the detection of reflux.

Topics: Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Female; Fluoroscopy; Humans; Infant; Male; Polysaccharides; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography; Urinary Tract Infections; Urination; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

Fluoroscopic micturating cystourethrography (MCU) is used for screening and grading of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). It involves ionizing radiation. This study was designed to assess the efficacy of contrast-enhanced sonography in predicting the presence or absence of VUR.. To compare an ultrasound contrast agent for detection of VUR in at-risk infants, and to compare these findings with fluoroscopic MCU with the aim of determining whether echo-enhanced sonography could be used instead of fluoroscopic MCU to identify neonates who do not have VUR, thus avoiding the use of radiation in this group.. From August 1999 to August 2000, 97 neonates (69 male, 31 female), aged 28-90 days (mean 48 days), referred for MCU and renal ultrasonography for investigation of VUR were recruited consecutively. Echo-enhanced sonography using stabilized microbubbles was followed immediately by fluoroscopic MCU. VUR was diagnosed if transient hyperechogenicity appeared within the pelvicalyceal system or ureter. The mean number of micturitions was 2.7 (range 1-6).. Reflux was detected in 19 kidneys (14 babies) by one or other technique. The findings were concordant in 181 kidneys (94.2%). Echo-enhanced sonography had a sensitivity of 64% (95% CI 35-87%), a specificity of 100% (95-100%), a positive predictive value of 100% (66-100%), and a negative predictive value of 94% (87-98%).. The role of echo-enhanced sonography is limited at present in our neonatal population as a screening examination. Its ability to detect cases of high-grade reflux may make it an attractive alternative in follow-up of known cases of VUR, and may help to reduce radiation exposure in this group.

Topics: Contrast Media; Female; Fluoroscopy; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Male; Polysaccharides; Prospective Studies; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

Voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) has long been the method of choice for the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). Especially in the course of conservative treatment, the radiation dose involved might become quite high over the years. Since the development of such ultrasound echo-enhancing agents as Levovist (Schering, Germany), we now have the ability to assess the diagnostic efficacy of this agent in the evaluation of VUR with a view to replacing VCUG with the radiation-free ultrasound methodology. A total of 104 children with a mean age of 5.4 years were examined using echo-enhancing ultrasound after informed consent had been obtained from their parents. For control purposes, all children were examined by standard VCUG as well. The diagnosis of VUR was judged to be positive when microbubbles appeared in the ureter or renal pelvis. Correlations were sought between the sonographic findings and those obtained by standard VCUG. In 76 (37%) of the 208 ureter-kidney units investigated, VUR was detected by both technologies. VUR was diagnosed by ultrasonography only in 5 units and by VCUG only only in 3 units. All reflux grades (I-V) were identified. The specificity and sensitivity of the contrast reflux ultrasound were significantly high. The long contrast time of up to 30 min combined with the high contrast effect resulted in convincing images with high levels of diagnostic confidence. Our results clearly demonstrate that the safety and accuracy of the diagnosis of VUR by means of contrast-enhanced ultrasound is statistically comparable to those of standard radiologic VCUG. Therefore, this methodology is an exceptional approach to reducing the number of children being exposed to ionising radiation especially during conservative follow-up of children with reflux.

Topics: Adolescent; Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Kidney; Male; Polysaccharides; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography; Ureter; Urodynamics; Urography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

Since early 80's, attempts to detect Vesicoureteric Reflux (VUR) with Ultrasound (US) contrast medium have been made to study the urinary tract during voiding. The galactose-based agents are comparable in the diagnostic range with the standard fluoroscopic cystography, providing high values of sensitivity and specificity. The purpose of our work is to show our experience during last three years with the urethrosonocystography with echo contrast in the diagnosis and follow-up of pediatric patients with urological malformations.. 442 patients were included in our study (aged 1 day to 13 years; 202 males and 240 females). All cases were referred for investigation of VUR based on previous criteria of urinary tract infection, VUR follow-up, dilated urinary tract, post endoscopic treatment, surgical treatment follow-up and others. After transurethral catheterisation the bladder was filled with US galactose-based contrast medium (Levovist). VUR was diagnosed when micro bubbles appeared in ureter or pelvicalyceal system and was graded according to the International Reflux Study Committee.. Of the 442 patients evaluated with echo enhanced urethrosonocystography, 227 were screening cases for discard VUR. Of these patients, only 58 were diagnosed as having VUR. In 165 cases the technique was indicated as follow-up. Two patients with spina bifida developed candiduria after the sonographic cystogram. In 6 patients with dilated urinary tract without reflux, galactose was detected in renal pelvis 6 months after the procedure.. In our experience urethrocystosonography with galactose-based US medium agents is a more sensitive method than standard Voiding Cystourethrography (VCUG) for detecting VUR in pediatric patients. US cystography is an attractive technique which involves no ionising radiation and is usually well tolerated by the young. This procedure should be considered as a routine diagnostic work-up for detecting VUR in pediatrics.

Topics: Child; Contrast Media; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Galactose; Humans; Male; Polysaccharides; Ultrasonography; Urinary Bladder; Urodynamics; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

The purpose of this study was to compare contrast-enhanced gray-scale voiding urosonography (CE-VUS) and contrast-enhanced color Doppler voiding urosonography (CE-CDVUS) with voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) to verify whether the use of color Doppler imaging improves the diagnosis and grading of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR).. In 74 patients, CE-VUS and CE-CDVUS were compared with VCUG, which was used as the gold standard. SHU 508 A (Levovist) was used as the echo-enhancing contrast agent. VUR was diagnosed if hyperechoic dots or color signals were visualized in the ureter on sonograms. VUR grading was based on morphologic and dynamic findings on CE-VUS and morphologic and color findings on CE-CDVUS. VCUG was performed conventionally, and grading by VCUG was in accordance with the international system of radiographic VUR grading. Patients who voided during 1 examination only (either CE-VUS and CE-CDVUS or VCUG) were excluded from the study. Agreement between the results of CE-VUS and VCUG and between those of CE-CDVUS and VCUG in diagnosing VUR was calculated by kappa statistics. CE-VUS and CE-CDVUS were compared for diagnostic accuracy by the McNemar test.. The agreement between CE-VUS and VCUG in predicting VUR was 90% (kappa score, 0.77; p < 0.001). The agreement between CE-CDVUS and VCUG was 96% (kappa score, 0.91; p < 0.001). CE-CDVUS showed a significantly higher diagnostic accuracy than did CE-VUS (96% versus 90% of cases correctly classified; McNemar chi2 = 4; p < 0.05). This was mainly related to the lower number of false-negative results for grade I and grade II VUR when CE-CDVUS was used.. The use of color Doppler imaging significantly improves the accuracy of contrast voiding urosonography in the detection and grading of VUR.

Topics: Adolescent; Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Polysaccharides; Radiography; Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

Voiding urosonography (VUS) using the intravesical application of an US contrast medium (Levovist) has been shown to have very high sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) compared to voiding cystourethrography (VCUG).. To determine the extent of reduction of VCUGs after adding VUS to the diagnostic algorithm of VUR.. Over 2 years, 449 children (162 boys, 287 girls) were referred for diagnosis of possible VUR. The selection of a particular reflux examination was based on pre-defined criteria. VUS was performed primarily in girls and follow-up cases. The indications for VCUG were as follows: (a) boys - first examination for VUR, (b) specific request for urethra or bladder imaging, (c) girls - when VUR was diagnosed in the VUS and no VCUG had been done previously, and (d) inadequate VUS.. VCUGs were primarily carried out in 141 cases. VUSs were performed in 308 patients. In 69 of these patients a VCUG followed during the same examination session. Thus 239 of 449 patients underwent only VUS, resulting in reduction of the VCUGs by 53 %.. The number of VCUGs was significantly reduced as a result of the implementation of VUS as part of the routine diagnostic imaging modality for VUR. Consequently, the number of children that would have been exposed to ionising radiation was reduced by over half.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Female; Fluoroscopy; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Male; Polysaccharides; Prospective Studies; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

The development of echo-enhancing agents has significantly improved the detection of the movement of fluid within the urinary tract by ultrasonography (US). The purpose of our study was to compare ultrasound voiding cystography (USVC) for the detection of vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) in children with direct radionuclide voiding cystography (DRVC). Ninety-nine children, aged 1.1-12.3 years, with 198 potentially refluxing units, were investigated simultaneously by DRVC and USVC. The indications for cystography were urinary tract infection, follow-up of a previously detected VUR, and screening of siblings of children with VUR. During the investigation an echo-enhancing agent (Levovist) was administered intravesically through a catheter already in place for the DRVC. The movement of both agents, radiotracer and Levovist, was registered simultaneously by a computerized gamma camera and US, respectively. The results were analyzed with DRVC representing the reference diagnostic test. The overall sensitivity and specificity of USVC for the detection of VUR were 79% and 92%, respectively. USVC may represent a reliable diagnostic tool for the detection and follow-up of VUR in children.

Topics: Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Female; Humans; Infant; Male; Polysaccharides; Radionuclide Imaging; Ultrasonography; Urinary Tract; Urination; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

Primary vesicoureteral reflux is a predisposing factor for urinary tract infections in children. The first-choice technique for the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux is voiding cystourethrography, followed by cystoscintigraphy; cystoscintigraphy, however, has the advantage of only minor irradiation of the patient, but it does not allow the morphological evaluation of bladder and vesicoureteral reflux grading. Colour-Doppler cystosonography with echocontrast is a recently introduced method for imaging vesicoureteral reflux. The aim of our study is to evaluate the role of colour-Doppler cystosonography with echocontrast in the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux. Twenty children (11M, 9F) aged between 0.4 and 4.9 y underwent colour-Doppler cystosonography using a diluted solution of Levovist (Schering, Germany), after filling up the bladder with saline. In all patients, vesicoureteral reflux diagnosis and grading had been performed previously by voiding cystourethrography within 5 d from ultrasonography. Our data showed high accuracy in the detection of medium to severe vesicoureteral reflux (grades III-V), confirmed by radiological features in 9/9 patients. Conversely, in the 11 patients with mild vesicoureteral reflux (grades I-II), this technique showed extremely low sensitivity, allowing diagnosis in only four cases.. Colour-Doppler cystosonography, because of the absence of ionizing radiations, has great advantages, particularly in patients needing prolonged monitoring. Despite experiences reported in the literature, this technique has a role in the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux. Our group chooses colour-Doppler cystosonography for the follow-up of medium-severe grade vesicoureteral reflux already diagnosed by radiology and/or scintigraphy. Cystoscintigraphy is employed only to confirm cases resulting negative at ultrasonography.

Topics: Age Factors; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Infant; Male; Polysaccharides; Radionuclide Imaging; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color; Urography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

To compare the usefulness of voiding US of the bladder and retrovesical space with echo enhancement with that of voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) for diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and to assess patient tolerance of the echo-enhancing agent.. One hundred eighty-eight patients (aged 5 days to 20 years) referred for investigation of VUR underwent voiding US with echo enhancement, which was followed by VCUG in 110 patients (226 kidney-ureter units). After US of the renal tract, the bladder was filled with normal saline solution. Then SU U 508 A, a galactose-based, microbubble-containing echo-enhancing agent, was administered. Reflux was diagnosed when microbubbles appeared in the ureter or pelvicalyceal system.. VUR was detected in 80 of the units with one (n = 18) or both (n = 62) methods. All grades of reflux were identified. In 15 units, reflux diagnosed at voiding US was not observed at VCUG; the reverse was true in three units. In 208 (92%) of the 226 kidney-ureter units, there was concordance between the two methods regarding the diagnosis or exclusion of VUR. The echo-enhancing agent was well tolerated.. SH U 508 A enhanced voiding US is as good as VCUG in the detection or exclusion of VUR and thus will make it possible to reduce the number of children having to be exposed to ionizing radiation.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Male; Polysaccharides; Radiography; Ultrasonography; Urethra; Urinary Bladder; Urination; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

The aim of our study was to evaluate contrast-enhanced sonography as an alternative to radiographic voiding cystourethrography in the detection of vesicoureteral reflux.. A total of 46 children, ranging in age from 3 weeks to 14 years (median: 4 years, 6 months) with 92 ureterorenal units were investigated for reflux using radiographic voiding cystourethrography and contrast-enhanced sonography in one session. After sonography of the urinary tract, the bladder was filled with saline solution via a catheter. Later, a contrast-enhancing agent was instilled and sonography was repeated. Documentation was done using S-VHS video and a laser camera. Reflux was diagnosed when microbubbles were observed in the ureter or in the renal pelvis. In addition, conventional voiding cystourethrography was performed. Patients without micturition during either sonography or radiographic examination were excluded (eight ureterorenal units).. The findings obtained by contrast-enhanced sonography and voiding cystourethrography were concordant in 78 ureterorenal units (92.9%). No reflux was detected in 67 units (79.8%) by either method. With voiding cystourethrography as the standard of reference, the sensitivity of contrast-enhanced sonography was 91.7%; the specificity, 93.1%; and the accuracy, 92.9%. The positive predictive value was 68.8%, and the negative predictive value was 98.5%.. Contrast-enhanced sonography is highly sensitive for the detection of vesicoureteral reflux. Therefore, it may reduce the number of radiographic investigations.

Topics: Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Female; Humans; Male; Polysaccharides; Predictive Value of Tests; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

To ascertain the diagnostic efficacy of reflux sonography with the application of the echo-enhancing agent Levovist in comparison with X-ray voiding cystourethrography (VCUG).. Echo-enhanced voiding urosonography (VUS) and VCUG were performed successively in one examination session in 114 children referred for the investigation of possible vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). After sonography of the urinary tract the bladder was filled with normal saline and Levovist was administered. Reflux was diagnosed when hyperechogenic, floating microbubbles appeared in the ureters or renal pelvises.. A total of 226 kidney-ureter units were available for analysis. Reflux was diagnosed in 80 units. All grades of reflux were represented. In 15 kidney-ureter units VUR was diagnosed with echo-enhanced VUS but was not seen at VCUG. The contrary was true in 3 units. High sensitivity and specificity in comparison to the VCUG could be attributed to the echo-enhanced VUS. The long imaging window attainable with Levovist makes the documentation of convincing images possible, contributing to the high diagnostic efficacy.. Echo-enhanced VUS is comparable to VCUG in the diagnosis of reflux.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Child; Child, Preschool; Contrast Media; Female; Humans; Image Enhancement; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Male; Polysaccharides; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography; Urodynamics; Urography; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux

In colour-coded Duplex sonography, ultrasound contrast agents produce a significant enhancement of Doppler signals from the blood. Animal experiments were performed to examine whether a combination of colour-coded Duplex sonography and ultrasound contrast agents can also visualise movements from hollow spaces which do not normally contain scatteres (or an insufficient number of them). The animal experiments showed that the method can visualise both movements in the tubae and a vesicoureteral reflux. This opens up new diagnostic possibilities for ultrasound, which, however, still require rechecking by means of clinical studies.

Topics: Animals; Contrast Media; Dogs; Fallopian Tubes; Female; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; Polysaccharides; Ultrasonography; Urinary Bladder; Urodynamics; Urogenital System; Uterus; Vesico-Ureteral Reflux