Contrast-Enhanced Voiding Urosonography (ceVUS) in the Diagnosis of Vesicoureteral Reflux in Children
Principle of the Method
Contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS) is based on intravesical administration of microbubble contrast agents via urinary catheter with subsequent ultrasound evaluation of vesicoureteral reflux (Hagen-Ansert, 2023). The method uses the same microbubble agents as intravascular CEUS; however, the route of administration is intravesical.
Clinical Significance in Pediatrics
The use of contrast agents in the pediatric population has elevated the role of sonography from a screening examination to a critical diagnostic and monitoring tool for diseases (Hagen-Ansert, 2023). With regard to the urinary system, ceVUS allows diagnosis and monitoring of vesicoureteral reflux treatment in children, as well as assessment of urethral status (EFSUMB, Nuernberg et al., 2019).
Indications
The primary indication is diagnosis and dynamic monitoring of vesicoureteral reflux in children, including assessment of treatment efficacy. Additionally, the method is used for urethral evaluation (EFSUMB, Nuernberg et al., 2019).
Safety
The safety of intravesical administration of second-generation ultrasound contrast agent for VUR diagnosis was prospectively evaluated in 1010 children (Papadopoulou et al., Pediatr Radiol 2014). The performance protocol for contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination is reflected in the AIUM practice parameter (American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, 2024). [specific safety parameters to be clarified from full text of source]
Frequently asked questions
What is the route of contrast administration in ceVUS?
The microbubble contrast agent is administered intravesically via urinary catheter (Hagen-Ansert, 2023).
What tasks does ceVUS solve beyond VUR diagnosis?
The method allows monitoring of vesicoureteral reflux treatment and assessment of urethral status (EFSUMB, Nuernberg et al., 2019).
Has the safety of this method been studied in children?
Yes, the safety of intravesical administration of second-generation ultrasound contrast was prospectively evaluated in 1010 children (Papadopoulou et al., Pediatr Radiol 2014).
What is the advantage of ceVUS for pediatric practice?
The method elevates the role of sonography to a critical diagnostic and monitoring tool, reducing stress for children and parents (Hagen-Ansert, 2023).