Use of Point-of-care Ultrasound for Detection of Urethral Foreign Bodies: A Case Series

Authors

Luca Tomasi MD, Baystate Health
Michael Zampi MD, Baystate HealthFollow
Michele Schroeder MD, Baystate HealthFollow
Michael Cooper MD, Baystate HealthFollow
Norah McIntyre MD, Baystate HealthFollow

Author Department

Emergency Medicine

Document Type

Article, Peer-reviewed

Publication Date

11-2025

Abstract

Introduction: Urethral foreign bodies are an uncommon presentation in the emergency department (ED) and can be difficult to assess and diagnose. There are examples in the literature of ultrasound detecting urethral foreign bodies. While not standard of practice, point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) may be a useful tool for this unique pathology.

Case series: We describe three cases in which POCUS was used in the care of patients presenting with urethral foreign bodies. Ultrasound aided in diagnosis and helped facilitate further management.

Conclusion: While urethral foreign bodies are relatively uncommon, they can lead to significant morbidity, which makes their prompt identification and treatment important. Ultrasound provides a rapid means of evaluation that allows the patient to stay under observation by ED staff while removing exposure to radiation or contrast.

Recommended Citation

Tomasi L, Zampi M, Schroeder M, Cooper M, McIntyre N. Use of Point-of-care Ultrasound for Detection of Urethral Foreign Bodies: A Case Series. Clin Pract Cases Emerg Med. 2025 Nov;9(4):365-368. doi: 10.5811/cpcem.41503.

PMID

41191896