Radiographics : a review publication of the Radiological Society of North America, Inc
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Conventional radiographic contrast material-enhanced studies (eg, retrograde urethrography [RUG], voiding cystourethrography [VCUG], double-balloon catheter urethrography) and ultrasonography are useful in evaluating the anatomy of the urethra but are limited in demonstrating anatomic derangement of adjacent structures. Since the anatomic details of both the urethra and periurethral tissues can be evaluated noninvasively with magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, this modality can be used as an adjunctive tool for evaluation of urethral abnormalities. In patients with congenital anomalies, MR imaging is reserved for cases of intersex anomalies or complex genitourinary anomalies, in which evaluation of internal organs is essential. ⋯ In cases of trauma, MR imaging is helpful in assessing the presence and extent of anterior or posterior urethral injury and predicting the occurrence of complications. At MR imaging, a fistula can be seen as a direct communicating channel with an adjacent organ. In patients with urethral tumors, the major role of MR imaging is in local staging.
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Ultrasonography (US) allows detection of a variety of soft-tissue foreign bodies, including wood splinters, glass, metal, and plastic, along with evaluation of their associated soft-tissue complications. Cases were obtained from the authors' clinical experience over the past 1.5 years. Surgical correlation allowed confirmation of the presence of a foreign body and associated soft-tissue complications in all cases. ⋯ US allows accurate and efficient detection of radiolucent soft-tissue foreign bodies and aids assessment of their associated complications. For radiopaque foreign bodies, US can provide more precise localization and improved assessment of the surrounding soft tissues. US has emerged as the study of choice for detection and localization of radiolucent soft-tissue foreign bodies and can aid assessment of their associated complications.