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West Virginia University Children’s is first in the region with new contrast enhanced ultrasound

Anyone who’s had to guide a child through any medical procedure knows it can be difficult. At WVU Medicine Children’s, though, a new diagnostic tool is making ultrasounds a little easier for patients and their caregivers.

Contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS) evaluates the anatomy and structure of the urinary system; it’s most commonly used in the diagnosis of bladder reflux, in which urine flows backwards, causing potential problems with the kidneys. It’s also used to detect blockages in the urinary tract and to assess problems such as incomplete emptying of the bladder.

With ceVUS, the patient can relax in ways not possible with other imaging tools. The technology also doesn’t rely on radiation – an important consideration for the littlest patients.

“During this exam, caregivers can offer their child easier and more comfortable positions, said Sabah Servaes, M.D., vice chair of WVU Medicine Children’s Pediatric Radiology. “They can even hold them during an ultrasound, which are things that cannot occur during other imaging studies.”

Overall, ceVUS makes diagnosing urinary problems simpler, easier and a little less scary, leading to a more positive experience overall.