Advancing Catheter-Free Pressure Flow Studies: Subharmonic-Aided Pressure Estimation (SHAPE) in Human Bladders via Contrast Ultrasonography

This study investigates the feasibility of using subharmonic-aided pressure estimation (SHAPE) as a non-invasive alternative for measuring bladder pressure in adult females. Using the GE Healthcare LOGIQ® E10 ultrasound scanner, researchers conducted urodynamic tests with the Lumason® ultrasound contrast agent, filling the bladder from 60 to 270 mL. The results demonstrated a significant inverse linear relationship between SHAPE signals and bladder pressure changes during both filling and post-filling phases, indicating SHAPE’s potential for catheter-free pressure measurement. While the findings are promising, further validation is necessary to establish SHAPE’s efficacy and clinical applicability during voiding.