Volumes vary from 50-100ml (Darrah et al, 2009) to >300ml. There is no clear consensus on what is a normal or abnormal PVR urine volume. The returning echo appears as a cross-section of the bladder on the screen (see Fig 1, attached) (Rigby and Housami, 2009) and automatically calculates bladder and PVR measurements (Scottish Health Technologies Group, 2011). The intensity of the returning echo of the sound waves and the time taken to receive a signal is measured to give either a two- or three-dimensional image of the bladder (Rigby and Housami, 2009). The scanner emits ultrasound waves, which pulse through the body.
Portable scanners usually comprise a base unit with display screen and a scanner head (ultrasound transducer). The clinical indications for using a bladder scanner are highlighted in Box 1.īladder scans are non-invasive.
Health professionals must be trained in who is, and is not, suitable for the procedure, how it should be carried out safely and interpreting the results so appropriate treatment can be planned. Ultrasound bladder scanning is increasingly used to detect post-void residual urine but is not suitable for everyone. A wide range of people may experience urinary retention, which can result in other health problems.