Intraoperative ultrasound-guided paediatric urological surgery: a pictorial review

Pediatr Radiol. 2024 Oct;54(11):1818-1830. doi: 10.1007/s00247-024-06035-y. Epub 2024 Aug 30.

Abstract

Intraoperative ultrasound is described widely in multiple pathological scenarios in adult practice and in image-guided interventions in children. We aim to describe the technique and range of potential uses of intraoperative ultrasound in paediatric urological surgery, from outlining the process of case selection, preparation, and logistics to demonstrating the ranging benefits of real-time, high spatial resolution ultrasound during resection. At our centre, we use intraoperative ultrasound to assist in a variety of operations. These include guiding excision margins in nephron-sparing surgery, assessing for vascular infiltration in renal tumours, and identifying salvageable testicular tissue in orchidectomy. By exhibiting these scenarios, we hope to display the unique value that intraoperative ultrasound can have to the paediatric surgeon and inspire additional uses further afield.

Keywords: Intraoperative period; Paediatrics; Surgical oncology; Ultrasound; Urology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Humans
  • Surgery, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Ultrasonography, Interventional* / methods
  • Urologic Surgical Procedures* / methods