RadteraUltrasound Pelvic Transabdominal (Limited / Bladder)
USNo contrastAbdomen & Pelvis
Indications
- Suspected urinary retention / bladder outlet obstruction
- Pre/post-void residual volume
- Hematuria / suspected bladder mass
- Pelvic mass when transvaginal not feasible
- Pediatric pelvic evaluation
Patient prep
- Full bladder for the study (acoustic window and volume assessment)
- For post-void residual, scan again immediately after voiding
Contrast
None / non-contrast
Technique
- Curvilinear 2-5 MHz transducer over suprapubic region
- Sagittal and transverse imaging of bladder and pelvic structures
- Color Doppler for ureteral jets / mass vascularity as needed
Series / Sequences
| # | Series / Sequence | Plane | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bladder sagittal | Sagittal | Wall, contents, distal ureters |
| 2 | Bladder transverse | Transverse | Wall thickening, masses, calculi |
| 3 | Bladder volume | Transverse + sagittal | Volume = L x W x H x 0.52 |
| 4 | Post-void residual | Transverse + sagittal | Repeat volume immediately after voiding |
| 5 | Pelvis / uterus / adnexa or prostate (as applicable) | As needed | Survey pelvic organs |
Key points
- Measure pre-void and post-void bladder volumes when retention is in question (PVR)
- Elevated post-void residual suggests outlet obstruction or detrusor dysfunction
- Distended bladder serves as acoustic window for pelvic organs
- Use color Doppler to confirm ureteral jets or characterize wall masses
References
• AIUM Practice Parameter for the Performance of an Ultrasound Examination of the Abdomen and/or Retroperitoneum (urinary bladder)
• AIUM Practice Parameter for the Performance of Ultrasound of the Female Pelvis (transabdominal)
• Radiopaedia: Bladder ultrasound link
• AIUM Practice Parameter for the Performance of Ultrasound of the Female Pelvis (transabdominal)
• Radiopaedia: Bladder ultrasound link
Source: Researched — verify against your institution
Reference template — verify and adapt to your scanner, vendor and institution before clinical use. Not a substitute for clinical judgment.