Role of ultrasound in the investigation of urinary and fecal incontinence

Abstract

Ultrasound was first introduced into medicine in 1942 by the Viennese neurologist Dussik for locating brain tumors. In 1958 Donald used this diagnostic method for intrauterine measurements of the fetus. Since then, ultrasonic investigation has become an indispensable part of the diagnostic repertoire in obstetrics and gynecology [1]. Attempts to determine the functional interactions within the pelvis, including the bladder, the urethra and the pelvic floor, have prompted the study of urethrovesical relationships by numerous methods, mostly radiographic techniques of urethrocystography [2, 3]. Ultrasound has many advantages over other imaging systems in that it is possible to visualize fluid-filled structures without the use of contrast medium. Ultrasound allows soft tissues to be seen, including the kidney, the bladder and its wall, the urethra and the urethral sphincter. The main advantage with ultrasound is that there is no ionizing radiation used and this means that tests may be repeated as frequently as required. © 2006 Springer-Verlag London Limited.