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Intraoperative translabial ultrasound for urethral diverticula: A road map for surgeons.

El-Zein C, Khoury N, El-Zein Y, Bulbul M, Birjawi G

Department of Diagnostic Radiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Bliss Street, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El Solh 1107 2020, Beirut, Lebanon.

PURPOSE: To highlight the importance of intraoperative translabial ultrasound, for identification of diverticular neck allowing complete resection of periurethral diverticula and decrease in the recurrence rate. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study included 4 women of age range between 38 and 68 years presenting for recurrent urinary tract infections and urethral pain. All had translabial urethral ultrasound and cystoscopy with and without U/C guidance. RESULTS: Prior cystoscopy in all these patients failed to demonstrate the diverticulum. Translabial ultrasound showed the diverticula some of which were infected. Ultrasound was used intraoperatively to guide the surgeon. With this approach the abnormality was confirmed and the neck of the diverticulum was identified through percutaneous needle insertion. This allowed complete resection of the diverticula. CONCLUSION: Translabial ultrasound is a non-invasive technique that plays a major role in examining the urethra and identifying the periuthral diverticula. In our experience, it was very useful as an adjunct to guide the surgeon intraoperatively allowing complete excision of the diverticulum.

Published 8 February 2008 in Eur J Radiol.
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