Fluoroscopic Evaluation of the Male Urethra in the Setting of Trauma

Abstract

The radiologist plays a key role in evaluation of the male urethra after trauma. In particular, radiologists perform the fluoroscopic procedures commonly used to evaluate for urethral injury: retrograde urethrography (RUG) and voiding cystourethrography (VCUG). Radiologists must effectively illustrate urethral anatomy and pathology while avoiding imaging pitfalls. This review article discusses normal male urethral anatomy, fluoroscopic imaging techniques for evaluation of the male urethra, findings and classification of traumatic urethral pathology, and common treatments of traumatic urethral injury. It is important that radiologists are aware of these key elements to communicate effectively with the treating clinicians.