Handheld ultrasound can be a powerful tool in the hours and days after a procedure. It can help clinicians easily evaluate the patient for postoperative urinary retention (POUR), which could lead to fewer post-operative complications and shorter hospital stays.
A Positive Impact on Patients
After a procedure, most patients are ready to return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Less time spent in examinations after a procedure means patients can recover and get home as quickly as possible.
A study in Emergency Medicine International found that the “The development of novel ultrasound-based clinical pathways, standard operation procedures, and workflow protocols by integration of PersUS.”
Handheld ultrasound quickly and effectively measures the largest transverse bladder diameter to enable clinicians to diagnose POUR. Anesthesia and Analgesia published a study suggesting that simple ultrasound measures could be helpful in excluding or confirming POUR.
When patients can experience an exam with handheld ultrasound – instead of a separate, additional ultrasound scan for a bladder volume measurement or a traditional ultrasound procedure – they’ll have a better overall experience, especially in the critical time after the procedure is over.
Sonography Comparison
Although some clinicians might be skeptical of using handheld ultrasound in evaluating POUR, urology ultrasound results have been comparable to traditional methods.
A study in International Urology and Nephrology found that “Urologist performed pocket ultrasound study is valid in evaluating the upper and lower urinary tract and is practical in many clinical scenarios. The urologic stethoscope is now becoming a reality within reach.”
Handheld postoperative urinary retention ultrasound can help clinicians quickly and easily diagnose POUR after a procedure, helping reduce complications and leading to shorter hospital stays – all for a better patient experience.
Related Resources
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- Vscan Extend™ Handheld Ultrasound
