Progress on application and research of ultrasound in the evaluation of congenital hydronephrosis
Chen Yuzhu, Guo Binbin, Zhao Zheng, et al.
1. Department of Pediatric Surgery, Six Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150023, China; 2.Department of Ultrasound, Six Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150023, China
Congenital hydronephrosis is one of the most common urinary system disorders in pediatrics, and its early diagnosis and accurate evaluation are crucial for the formulation of treatment strategies. Ultrasound, as a non-invasive, radiation-free, and easy-to-operate imaging technology, plays a significant role in the early screening, diagnosis, and follow-up management of congenital hydronephrosis. However, conventional ultrasound has certain limitations in assessing renal function impairment and evaluating complex
cases. This article reviews the applications of conventional ultrasound in the diagnosis, grading, and dynamic monitoring of congenital hydronephrosis. Additionally, it introduces emerging ultrasound technologies, including diuretic ultrasound, ultrasound elastography, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound, as well as the integration of artificial intelligence in ultrasound-based evaluation of hydronephrosis.
2026, Vol. 14 
