Ultrasound examination (ultrasound) - recognition pathological changes organs and tissues of the body using ultrasound. Ultrasound is based on the principle of echolocation - the reception of signals sent and then reflected from the interfaces of tissue media that have different acoustic properties.
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs is performed in order to visually determine the presence of a particular pathology in a woman (or fetus during obstetric ultrasound) based on echographic signs.
A pelvic ultrasound can be performed with an abdominal (through the belly) or vaginal (vaginal) probe. In a woman's pelvis, an ultrasound scan examines the uterus, fallopian tubes, vagina, ovaries and bladder.
- Uterus: The position, shape, main dimensions of the uterus and the structure of its walls are determined.
In addition, the mid-uterine structures are examined separately: the uterine cavity and the endometrium (M-echo). In a non-pregnant woman, the uterine cavity is slit-like. Endometrium - functional inner layer- changes during the menstrual cycle. - Ovaries: Position relative to the uterus, size, size of follicles and corpus luteum(formation that remains in place of the follicles after the egg leaves the ovary). A comparison is made with the phase of the menstrual cycle.
When formations are detected in the ovaries, they are also described (shape, structure, size). - The presence of free fluid is also determined (normally, after the release of the egg from the ovary, it is present in small quantities) and the presence of tumor formations in the pelvic cavity.
- In addition to the structure of the uterus and ovaries, during an ultrasound the condition of the bladder is assessed (if it is sufficiently filled).
Advantages of ultrasound diagnostics
Ultrasound examination is carried out quickly, the ultrasound method is visual, economical and easy, can be used repeatedly and with minimal effort in preparing for the examination. It is reliably confirmed that Ultrasound is absolutely safe even for a pregnant woman.
Indications for ultrasound of the pelvic organs
The ultrasound examination method is widely used in cases of suspected gynecological diseases, pregnancy, to monitor the treatment and cure of the patient.
- Using ultrasound of the uterus, it is possible to diagnose pregnancy at early stages.
- Pelvic ultrasound in women should be performed in case of menstrual irregularities (delayed menstruation, early onset of menstruation, bleeding in the middle of the cycle), with heavy or scanty menstruation, in the absence of menstruation, with various secretions from the vagina, with pain in the lower abdomen, with the appearance of discharge during menopause.
- With help gynecological ultrasound are revealed various diseases: from inflammatory gynecological diseases to benign and malignant tumors uterus and ovaries (including endometriosis, salpingoophoritis, ovarian cysts, endometritis, etc.).
- Ultrasound of the uterus makes it possible early diagnosis uterine fibroids.
- Pelvic ultrasound is widely used to monitor the follicular apparatus of the ovaries in the treatment of infertility and pregnancy planning.
- Ultrasound examination of the pelvis is prescribed when taking contraceptives and hormonal drugs, in the presence of an intrauterine contraceptive (“spiral”) to control and prevent complications.
- Ultrasound during pregnancy (obstetric ultrasound) allows you to monitor normal development fetus and detect pathology in a timely manner.
- In urology, pelvic ultrasound is necessary to identify the causes of urination disorders, urinary incontinence and pathology of the urethra (urethra).
Contraindications to ultrasound of the pelvic organs
There are no contraindications to ultrasound examination
Preparation for ultrasound of the pelvic organs
When visiting the ultrasound diagnostic room to remove residual gel from the skin after the examination, you must have a towel or napkin with you, as well as a diaper on which you will lie for the examination.
In non-pregnant women, a routine gynecological ultrasound is performed on a full bladder, unless otherwise specified by the doctor. To ensure maximum accuracy and reliability of the results, it is necessary to strictly adhere to the established rules for preparing for ultrasound of the pelvic organs:
- For transabdominal (through the abdomen) gynecological ultrasound, bladder preparation is necessary: drink 1-1.5 liters of still liquid 1 hour before the procedure and do not urinate before the examination;
- For transvaginal (through the vagina) gynecological ultrasound, no special preparation is required, the study is carried out with empty bladder;
- obstetric ultrasound (ultrasound during pregnancy) is performed with a moderately full bladder (drink 2 glasses of liquid 1 hour before the procedure).
When examining organs genitourinary system(bladder, prostate, uterus, ovaries) you need to drink 0.5 liters of liquid 1-1.5 hours before the examination or not urinate for 2 hours. This is necessary to fill the bladder, which pushes aside the organs being examined.
A prerequisite for a successful ultrasound- empty intestines and absence of gases in it. Therefore, preparation for an ultrasound should begin in advance: it is important to follow a diet with a limit on foods that cause constipation or gas formation 2-3 days before the upcoming ultrasound examination. It is recommended to exclude from the diet foods that cause increased gas formation (brown bread, fruits, raw vegetables, confectionery, milk). Recommended admission enzyme preparations: festal, panzinorm, enzistal, creon, etc. Cleansing enemas are not recommended, as they often increase gas formation. In addition, you can take Activated carbon, espumisan, dill water. If you have constipation, it is recommended to take a laxative, especially if necessary, to conduct an examination using a rectal probe.
Ultrasound is performed on an empty stomach (last meal 8-12 hours before the examination) and immediately after bowel movement.
Examination of the mammary glands, uterus and appendages is recommended to be carried out in the first half or middle of the menstrual cycle.
Examination for folliculogenesis is carried out at 5; 9; 11-14 and 15 days of the menstrual cycle.
The accuracy of the results obtained largely depends on how you prepare for the ultrasound..
IN in case of emergency Ultrasound is performed without preparation, but its effectiveness is lower.
How to perform an ultrasound of the pelvic organs
You lie down on the couch (having previously spread a diaper) with your head towards the doctor (ultrasound machine) and expose your stomach and lower abdomen. The ultrasound doctor will lubricate the ultrasound probe with gel (for a transvaginal ultrasound, he will put a condom on the probe and lubricate it with gel) and will move the probe over you, occasionally applying pressure, to view the pelvic organs from a different angle. The procedure is absolutely painless, with the exception of diagnostics for acute inflammatory processes of the pelvic organs. An ultrasound examination takes from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the purpose of the examination.
Complications of pelvic ultrasound
No complications are observed after an ultrasound examination, but transvaginal ultrasound during pregnancy, especially in early pregnancy, is performed only after assessing the risk to the fetus.
Interpretation of the results of ultrasound of the pelvic organs
Only an experienced doctor can correctly interpret ultrasound results.
What can a pelvic ultrasound detect?
Congenital developmental anomalies: The use of ultrasound, especially three-dimensional, makes it possible to diagnose developmental anomalies of the uterus (bicornuate, saddle-shaped, one-horned, duplex uterus).
The presence of congenital developmental anomalies can cause infertility, increase the risk of premature birth, spontaneous termination of pregnancy, intrauterine fetal death, abnormal fetal position and disruption of labor.
Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a pathological process that is characterized by the spread of the endometrium beyond the uterine cavity (uterine wall, ovaries, peritoneum, etc.). An ultrasound of the pelvic organs reveals internal endometriosis or adenomyosis (growth of the endometrium into the wall of the uterus) and endometrioid ovarian cysts.
Diagnosis of endometriosis is important for predicting the possibility of pregnancy (endometriosis can cause infertility) and pregnancy.
Uterine fibroids: Uterine fibroids - benign tumor female reproductive system. Ultrasound determines the presence, number, location and size of myomatous nodes. In addition, ultrasound makes it possible to monitor the dynamics of their growth rates. Therefore, ultrasound is done several times a year. Diagnosis of fibroids is extremely important when preparing for conception, since the presence of fibroids can affect the course of pregnancy.
Diagnosis of pregnancy: Ultrasound allows you to diagnose pregnancy starting from 3 - 4 weeks. Short periods of pregnancy are determined only with the help of a transvaginal sensor, a device with good resolution. Diagnosed different kinds ectopic pregnancy(tubal - the fertilized egg is attached to the fallopian tube, cervical - the fertilized egg is attached to the cervix, ovarian - the fertilized egg is attached to the ovary), which allows you to maintain the woman’s health.
Intrauterine contraception: The process of insertion and removal of the intrauterine contraceptive is monitored using ultrasound. promptly detect incorrect location, partial or complete prolapse of the IUD from the uterine cavity, or ingrowth of parts of the contraceptive into the uterine wall. If you are planning a pregnancy, then after removing the intrauterine contraceptive, the doctor will recommend that you do an ultrasound.
Hyperplastic processes of the endometrium (hyperplasia, polyps, malignant tumors endometrium), ovarian mass formations.
Preventive ultrasound of the pelvic organs
For healthy women, for preventive purposes, it is necessary to do an ultrasound of the pelvic organs once every 1 - 2 years, and after the age of 40 - once a year in order to identify hidden pathology. Preventive ultrasound of the pelvic organs is usually performed in phase I of the cycle (5-7 days from the start of menstruation).
Pelvic ultrasound is performed on women and men for many reasons. Sometimes some patients try to avoid this type of diagnosis - either out of false modesty, or out of fear of finding out a bad diagnosis. Let's consider the main features of the procedure, its indications and contraindications, as well as what can be seen during such an examination.
-
Organs examined
The ultrasound method for studying the pelvic organs differs between representatives of both sexes. And this is due mainly to the anatomical features of the organs being analyzed.
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs is rightly considered absolutely in a safe way diagnostics, since in modern clinical practice has not yet been discovered harmful effects ultrasound on the human body.
What is examined in women?
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs is used to examine the following organs in women:
- Ovarian
- Uterus
- Bladder
- Uterine cervix
- Fallopian tubes.
This type of diagnosis is also used to analyze the conditions of pregnancy.
What is examined in men?
This ultrasound is comprehensive examination and is used to analyze the condition of such organs:
- bladder (in this case, the amount of residual urine is additionally determined);
- prostate gland(adjacent tissues and lymph nodes are additionally examined);
- seminal vesicles.
In what cases is it carried out?
Indications for such examination for women
This procedure is carried out when:
- diagnosis of pregnancy abnormalities;
- pain in the lower abdomen;
- the appearance of vaginal bleeding;
- infertility.
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs is done in the following cases:
- Various urination disorders (when a patient consults a doctor with complaints of painful, frequent and difficult urination).
- Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder.
- Pain in the urinary area, as well as in the perineum and scrotum.
- Attacks of colic.
- The appearance of blood in seminal fluid and urine.
- Trauma to the urinary tract, perineum, prostate gland.
- If structural anomalies are detected genitourinary organs, as well as when deviations in the functioning of these organs are detected.
- If the patient has complaints of erectile dysfunction.
- To clarify the indicators obtained from a digital examination of the prostate gland.
It is necessary to do an ultrasound before scheduled surgical interventions on the pelvic organs.
How to prepare?
Men need to drink about a liter of liquid an hour to an hour and a half before undergoing a transabdominal examination.
The procedure itself is carried out when the urge to urinate appears.
If patients undergo transrectal diagnostic test Ultrasound of the pelvic organs, then you need to prepare for it several days in advance. The main thing is to avoid consuming foods that increase gas production. Their excessive quantity will interfere with normal examination.
Such products include:
- bread;
- alcoholic drinks, especially beer;
- vegetables containing coarse types of fiber;
- fermented milk dishes.
On the day when the transrectal ultrasound is performed, the intestines should be cleansed.
Women should empty their urine before transvaginal examination. To reduce the formation of gases, you can take activated carbon, Mezim, etc.How does the research procedure work?
IN modern conditions this procedure occurs with maximum comfort for all patients. However, the methodology for carrying them out differs depending on gender. There may be slight pain if the sensor touches a painful area. Sometimes discomfort appears when the sensor is inserted into the rectum.
If a biopsy is performed (for example, of the prostate gland), then the patient experiences additional discomfort associated with the insertion of a thin needle into the organ. However, such sensations are minimal, since the doctor inserts the needle into a place where the number of nerve endings is minimal.
Carrying out the procedure in women
In women, the doctor conducts an examination transabdominally, transvaginally or transrectally.
During a transabdominal examination, the patient lies on a couch, which can freely change the angle of inclination and other parameters. A special harmless gel is applied to the skin (for a closer contact of the sensor with the skin).
The bladder should be full. The specialist moves the sensor over areas of the patient’s skin, pressing it against the skin. This way he can examine the organ being examined in more detail.
This type of examination is convenient because it is not invasive, i.e. during examination, the sensor does not penetrate into natural environments body
A transvaginal test involves the doctor inserting an ultrasound probe into the vagina. A condom is placed over the sensor and a gel is applied to it. The position of the patient is the same as during a regular examination by a gynecologist.
With the transvaginal method, a full bladder is not required, and the information content of the procedure is much higher than with the transabdominal type of examination
A rectal examination involves inserting an ultrasound probe into the rectum. This type of procedure is prescribed to girls. The patient lies in a lateral position with her knees bent.
Features of the procedure for men
The doctor chooses one of the following methods for performing a pelvic ultrasound.
Transabdominal examination of the pelvic organs occurs using an ordinary sensor emitting ultrasound waves. It moves along the abdominal wall (the bladder must be full).Thus, the specialist can see the condition of all organs being examined, the thickness and structure of their walls and other parameters. The same diagnosis is carried out after urination (during such an examination, the doctor also determines the amount of remaining urine).
A rectal examination is performed using a specially designed probe that is inserted into the anus. This study is done in cases where the patient cannot long time hold urine in the bladder (this happens during inflammation of the organ, as well as with urinary incontinence).
In this way, it is possible to detect pathologies that are not visualized by conventional transabdominal examination. The doctor can clearly see stones, abscesses, cysts and other foreign objects. Sometimes, during a transrectal examination, a prostate biopsy is performed (this procedure is necessarily carried out under ultrasound control).
This type of examination combines high information content and accessibility, and also allows you to diagnose most possible pathologies
Doppler examination is an additional clarifying diagnosis. It makes it possible to see the causes of circulatory disorders in the pelvic organs and detect other vascular lesions.
Detected pathologies
Based on such a study, the doctor makes his conclusion and makes a diagnosis. The results can be provided in the form of pictures, or recorded on a digital disk.
Among women
The doctor evaluates the structure of the uterine tissue, its dimensions and location, the location of the ovaries, and the presence of a follicle. In addition, the following parameters are examined:
- presence of formations of different nature and the degree of malignancy in the uterus and gonads;
urinary condition, its dimensions; - the presence of various types of pathologies of the colon and rectum.
- During the study, the results obtained are compared with the norm. The presence of deviations indicates certain dysfunctions of the body part being diagnosed:
- if the study showed a change in the thickness of the cervix, a change in the size of the uterine tubes - this indicates high risk development of cancer;
- if formations are visible in the image different sizes or geometric shape, this indicates the presence of cysts and fibroids in the body;
- a reduced uterus (as well as with enlarged ovaries) indicates that a woman has polycystic disease;
If such an examination shows that the examined organs have changed their echogenicity, the sonologist usually diagnoses endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
In men
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs in men visualizes:
- kidney stones;
- tumors of the urinary gland, prostate gland;
- developmental and functional disorders urinary tract;
- neoplasms in the pelvic area;
- diseases of the prostate, seminal vesicles;
- anomalies of the rectum.
Choosing a research method
A pelvic ultrasound can be done using the methods described above; one of them is determined individually. Usually, when prescribing a gynecologist, he recommends a study, the time of its implementation and talks about preparation for diagnosis.
In the case when ultrasonography is carried out without first visiting a gynecologist; the choice of method and preparation for it is independent.
To all the girls who didn't start sex life, the study is performed transabdominally. The abdominal method requires pre-filling of the bladder to improve visualization.
For women, examination of the pelvic organs is most often performed transvaginally. However, it is possible to use both methods - first, examination through the abdomen, and then (after emptying the bladder) TVUS.
During pregnancy, the examination is performed transabdominally, and preliminary filling of the bladder is not required. TV is used in case of low position of the fetus.
Feelings during the study
Often among patients, especially young ones, the question arises about whether it hurts during an ultrasound.
Doing a transabdominal examination is absolutely painless. You can only feel a chill from applying the gel to the lower abdomen. With transvaginal, a short-term feeling of discomfort is possible when the sensor is inserted. If pain occurs during an ultrasound, you should tell your doctor about this, as this is not normal.
Frequency of ultrasound
This issue remains important and controversial in gynecological practice.
The harmlessness of the method has been confirmed by many years of experience. This allows the use of ultrasound in every necessary case. However, like any other study, ultrasound is correct to do when indicated. After menopause, annual ultrasound examinations are recommended.
Given the absence of harmful effects on women, frequent use of this method is possible. This makes it possible to conduct an annual analysis of women even before the onset of menopause and identify precancerous diseases and oncology at an early stage.
Study protocol
Every healthcare organization has its own template. The differences relate more to design, but all protocols have established measurement and evaluation parameters. An example of this (ultrasound of the pelvic organs) is presented below.
For research during pregnancy, there are separate protocols for each trimester. They must indicate the class of the apparatus (expert, high), since the quality and reliability of the analyzes depends on this.
Normal test results
OMT ultrasound can be performed at any age. In pediatric practice, the transabdominal method is used.
In newborn girls, the cervix is not differentiated; a general measurement of the uterus is performed. The size of the organ is increased due to the hormonal background of the mother, and the uterus shrinks during the first year of life. It is 8-10*10-15*30-40 mm. The organ restores this size by 7 years.
the arrow indicates a narrow cavity
size table female organ depending on age.
Notes The length of the uterus up to 10 years was measured together with the cervix. After the start of menstruation, measurements are taken in the first phase of the cycle.
During the reproductive period, indicators of the size of the uterus have a wide range and depend on a number of factors (the presence and number of pregnancies, their interruptions, the number of births).
Table of uterine sizes during the reproductive period.
Ultrasound after menopause can detect uterine involution. The decrease in its value depends on the duration of menopause.
Size of the uterus at menopause.
The thickness of the endometrium is an important parameter, which also changes during the menstrual cycle: from 0.6-0.9 cm in proliferation to 1.1-1.6 cm at the end of the cycle (photo of the endometrium during various phases is normal. No change in M -An echo during the cycle is a pathology, which indicates hormonal disorders.
the condition of the walls, the thickness of the layers and echogenicity are determined. The size of the ovaries also changes with age: in adolescence active growth is observed, and with the onset of menopause - involution.
To estimate the size linear parameters are used, but the volume of the ovaries is more important. During the reproductive period, the volume norm does not exceed 8 cm³. With the onset of menopause, the volume decreases: after a year - to 4.5 cm³, 5 years - to 2.5 cm³, 10 years - no more than 1.5 cm³. At any age, the volume of the right and left ovaries should normally not differ by more than 1.5 cm³.
size, structure and echogenicity are determined
Uterus measurement video
The interpretation of the results should be carried out correctly taking into account age, reproductive history, and the day of the menstrual cycle (if menstruation is present).
Dopplerography
All types of ultrasound in gynecology can be supplemented with assessment of uterine blood flow. This method shows the condition of the arteries, and with the help of color circulation, it is possible to assess capillary blood flow and differentiate focal formations. USG has important for obstetricians. Doppler ultrasound may show changes in blood flow in the uterine and umbilical cord vessels. Based on these parameters, the risk of delay is identified intrauterine development at the preclinical stage. In older women, examination of the venous network can reveal their varicose veins.
Standards for Doppler measurements include velocity indicators, and are also based on an assessment of the resistance index and systolic, systole-diastolic ratio.
Conclusion
After the doctor conducts this type of diagnosis, the patient must wait some time until a conclusion is drawn up. This usually takes a short time. Based on the diagnostic results, the necessary treatment is prescribed or additional clinical examinations are carried out.
If a sonologist has prescribed a pelvic ultrasound for a patient, there is no need to refuse. After all, only based on the results of an accurate diagnosis can you choose the most effective treatment pelvic problems. On the contrary, untimely diagnosis has a negative impact on the effectiveness of treatment.
Additional photos
Give the patient an absolutely accurate diagnosis initial examination– a very difficult task even for a highly qualified specialist. However, thanks modern methods diagnostics it became possible to see all the nuances of the body’s condition. Ultrasound examination is one of them.
Conditions for prescribing pelvic ultrasound
The examination, which is carried out using ultrasound, is a widespread and safest diagnostic method; it is no coincidence that it is used even when monitoring the course of pregnancy in women. The human body is capable of reflecting and absorbing ultrasonic waves varying degrees, which allows for ultrasound examination. Using special sensors, waves directed at any organ scan the area under study, after which the signals are converted into an image on the monitor.
The advantages of the ultrasound method are high information content, painlessness of the procedure, the ability to see deviations from the norm on early stages diseases; in addition, during this examination the skin is not damaged and no substances are introduced into the body. medical supplies. An ultrasound does not take much time and does not cause any discomfort in the patient.
Ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs allows you to determine the condition of the bladder, ovaries, uterus, cervix and fallopian tubes– in women, and in men – the condition of the prostate gland and seminal vesicles.
Indications for a pelvic ultrasound may include groin pain, detection of blood in the urine, problems with urination, infertility, menstrual irregularities in women, decreased potency in men. In addition, pelvic ultrasound allows you to see anatomical features patient, congenital pathologies, age-related changes, monitor the effectiveness of a particular treatment method. It is also very important to regularly conduct this examination for preventive purposes, as this allows you to detect the slightest deviations from the norm, diagnose tumors and inflammatory diseases in a timely manner and begin to treat them.
This is interesting
Modern women For a long time they have not turned to signs to find out who will be born - a boy or a girl. Today, expectant mothers can determine the sex of the baby in advance and with a high degree of accuracy. The genital tubercle appears in the fetus at the 7th week of pregnancy; after the 20th week, parents can already find out who they are expecting. When using 3D and 4D technologies, it is possible to determine the sex of the child from the 15th week.
Before an ultrasound, or Preparation for a pelvic examination procedure
Preparation for the study depends on how the procedure will be performed. In both men and women, ultrasound of the pelvic organs can be performed transabdominally, that is, through the anterior abdominal wall. This examination method is indicated even for virgins and pregnant women. Two days before the ultrasound, it is important to exclude carbonated drinks, legumes, dairy products, raw vegetables and fruits from the diet, and also avoid large meals. This is necessary in order to prevent gas formation in the intestines, which can interfere with an accurate diagnosis. In addition, you should cleanse your intestines. To do this, you need to give an enema or glycerin suppository 2-3 hours before the examination of the pelvic organs, or take a laxative the day before. 1 hour before a transabdominal pelvic ultrasound, you should drink a liter of plain still water to keep your bladder full.
Examination of the pelvic organs in women is also carried out transvaginally. This procedure does not require any preliminary preparation.
When diagnosing the pelvic organs in both women and men, ultrasound can be performed transrectally, that is, through anus. The bladder should be full and the intestines should be cleansed. This method of diagnosis in men allows the most accurate examination of the prostate gland and seminal vesicle, and in women - to identify diseases of the urinary tract. This type of ultrasound is also indicated when performing a biopsy.
During pregnancy, women undergo a so-called obstetric ultrasound - it allows you to monitor the condition of the genital organs expectant mother and the development of the fetus. Ultrasound during pregnancy special training does not require, however, on the eve of a pelvic examination you should still abstain from foods that contribute to gas formation and come to the procedure 3-5 hours after eating.
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs has no contraindications, therefore this procedure allowed to everyone.
When is it better to do a pelvic ultrasound and the procedure?
To obtain the most accurate diagnostic results, it is important to undergo examination within a strictly established time frame. Thus, in women of reproductive age, pelvic ultrasound is performed on the 5-8th day of the cycle - precisely during this period clinical picture appears most clearly. Obstetric ultrasound usually done three times - during each trimester of pregnancy. For what period and why is it carried out?
- 11-13th week– the main function of the first ultrasound is to diagnose the possible presence of malformations of the embryo.
- 18-21st week- one of the most important tasks Ultrasound remains revealing birth defects fetal development, the size of the fetus itself, its organs and systems are measured. During this period, you can determine the sex of the baby.
- 30-34th week– the size of the fetus is assessed, its correspondence to the gestational age; The position of the fetus in the uterine cavity is determined, which is important for the subsequent determination of labor management tactics.
Pelvic ultrasound in men can be done at any time.
It is recommended that both men and women undergo a preventive ultrasound examination once a year in order to detect hidden pathologies, and if abnormalities are detected, strictly according to the schedule prescribed by the attending physician.
During the procedure of performing an ultrasound of the pelvic organs using any of the methods described above, the patient does not experience any discomfort or pain - modern medical equipment takes into account the anatomical features of a person, and in order to protect the patient from infections, condoms are used with sensors inserted into the vagina or rectum.
- At transabdominal method To conduct an ultrasound examination, the patient lies on the couch on his back, the doctor moves the sensor over the area of the body being examined. On skin covering in the area of the examined organ is applied special gel, which prevents the formation of air sinuses that prevent the penetration of waves, this allows you to display the clearest image on the monitor.
- During transvaginal ultrasound pelvis in women, the sensor is inserted into the vagina, and the patient experiences much less discomfort than during a regular gynecological examination.
- Transrectal ultrasound carried out when the patient lies on the couch on his side, with his knees bent. A small sensor is painlessly inserted directly into the rectum. A pelvic ultrasound lasts on average 15-20 minutes and is performed by specialist sonologists. During an ultrasound, the patient is sometimes asked to bring wet wipes, a towel and a diaper.
What does a pelvic ultrasound show in women and men?
Diagnosis of the pelvic organs using ultrasound waves makes it possible to determine the condition of the examined organs and make an accurate diagnosis. To draw a conclusion, the doctor just needs to study the picture displayed on the monitor. Images can be printed if necessary. Pelvic ultrasound in women allows us to diagnose many diseases, for example, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, salpingoophoritis, endometritis, ovarian cysts, tumors, as well as early pregnancy. In men, a pelvic examination shows a picture of the condition of the prostate gland and bladder, allows you to identify prostate adenoma and other tumors, makes it possible to detect benign hyperplasia of the gland and much more.
The patient can find out the results of the examination immediately. If deviations from the norm are detected with a conclusion drawn up by a sonologist, the patient is sent to the attending physician (gynecologist, urologist), who determines the necessary course of treatment.
Monday, 04/23/2018
Editorial opinion
A timely diagnosis allows you to avoid complications in the treatment of the disease, and sometimes even increase life expectancy. Unfortunately, few of us take care of our health with a high degree of responsibility and turn to preventive diagnostic methods. Think about it, life is so changeable and fleeting! We advise you to never delay visits to the doctor and undergo all necessary examinations on time.
The main feature of ultrasound is that it does not use harmful ionizing radiation, as is the case with x-rays. In addition, ultrasound does not show a static picture, but an image, so to speak, online. This allows specialists to evaluate the movement of organs and blood flow in the vessels.
Indications for pelvic ultrasound
So, the doctor may prescribe a pelvic ultrasound in one of the following cases:
Using ultrasound, you can determine pregnancy literally in the first days after conception.
The doctor prescribes an ultrasound for women for any malfunctions and irregularities in the menstrual cycle, be it a delay in the onset of menstruation or too early menstruation, bleeding in the middle of the cycle, and so on. Ultrasound is also prescribed for excessively strong or weak menstruation, for unclear vaginal discharge, for discharge after menopause and, of course, if there is no menstruation at all.
Ultrasound of the uterus is prescribed if a disease that is difficult to treat is suspected - uterine fibroids.
Ultrasound can also identify all formations on the uterus and ovary (both malignant and benign).
Various inflammations of the pelvic organs are also indications for ultrasound diagnostics.
The gynecologist may prescribe a study to monitor the intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD), as well as in case of complaints about side effects on the part of such a contraceptive.
A pelvic ultrasound is performed for both sexes if there are any problems with the genitourinary system.
Obstetricians prescribe ultrasound for early detection everyone pathological disorders fetus, checking the condition and tone of the uterus during pregnancy and simply to monitor the development of the child.
Also ultrasound - mandatory procedure when searching for the cause of infertility in men and women.
An ultrasound is always prescribed for possible obstruction of the fallopian tubes in women.
It is important to note that ultrasound is prescribed for men if any pathology of the prostate gland (prostate) and seminal vesicles is suspected.
Children are also sometimes prescribed a pelvic ultrasound when severe pain in the pelvic area.
What can a pelvic ultrasound reveal?
In addition to monitoring pregnancy and the process of fetal development, pelvic ultrasound in women can promptly detect a number of serious illnesses. First of all, these are, of course, neoplasms, such as cysts, polyps and fibroids. An ultrasound can also show whether a woman has ovarian or uterine cancer. Ultrasound can detect almost all uterine abnormalities, including scars on the uterus.
In both men and women, pelvic ultrasound reveals diseases of the bladder, including a tumor (cancer) of the bladder, as well as the presence of stones and sand in the kidneys. As for children, ultrasound reveals various neoplasms and anomalies in the pelvic area, heterogeneity of the genital organs. U little girls Ultrasound can show too early or too late puberty.
A special type of ultrasound, Doppler ultrasound, shows such nuances as congenital vascular malformation, blockages and blood clots in the bloodstream, narrowing in the vessels, and the appearance of blockages in the vessels.
Preventive ultrasound of the pelvic organs
They do not always send for an ultrasound only if there are any diseases. The purpose of ultrasound is early diagnosis of the disease, because in the earliest stages any disease is much more treatable. So it is very necessary to undergo an ultrasound for preventive purposes, this is especially important for women.
How often should this be done? Healthy young women need to undergo such an ultrasound for preventive purposes at least once every two years. Women over forty need to do this ultrasound more often - once a year.
For the most reliable result, it is important to undergo a preventive ultrasound at the beginning of the menstrual cycle - on the fifth to seventh day after the start of menstruation.
Pelvic ultrasound is a simple, painless and absolutely harmless technique for studying the organs of the lower part abdominal cavity. It is often used to examine men, women and children. The diagnostician’s capabilities during the procedure are unlimited - there are several methods that allow for the most thorough examination of the internal pelvic organs (PIO).
Features and types of research
Ultrasound diagnostics is based on the principle of echolocation, that is, wave vibrations emitted by the device’s sensor are reflected from tissue structures and transmitted to a computer. The information is then processed special program, and the resulting image of the organ being examined is displayed on the monitor screen and becomes available for study.
Difference in anatomical structure tissues and changes in their structure when diseases occur allows us to draw conclusions from the resulting image or photo of the organ about the presence or absence of pathological processes in the area under study. To get the most accurate results, doctors try to choose the most suitable technique. That is why ultrasound examination of organs located in the pelvis is carried out in three ways, allowing the procedure to be performed as efficiently as possible. These include abdominal, transrectal and transvaginal OMT ultrasound.
Abdominal ultrasound examination OMT
This type of technique is the most common and comfortable for both the patient and the diagnostician. Therefore, if there are no contraindications for the procedure, it will be prescribed. Because in this case, a pelvic ultrasound is performed by simply moving the emitter along the lower abdomen, capturing projections of all organs of interest. This pelvic ultrasound allows you to examine the bladder, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries in women, and the prostate gland and seminal vesicles in men.
In order for the examination to give a complete picture, the patient needs to prepare in advance, and 3-4 days before the procedure, exclude foods that cause flatulence from the diet. These products include legumes, raw vegetables and fruits, fatty meats, fish, cheeses, dairy products, except low-fat cottage cheese, smoked meats, pickles and spicy foods. You should also avoid alcohol, carbonated drinks and water. Otherwise, gases will accumulate in the intestines, which may distort the results of the examination.
In addition to the diet, you can take medications containing pancreatic enzymes for a day or two, such as Mezim, Festal or their analogues. This will help digest food, which will reduce the formation of gas in the intestines. Also, if you are prone to constipation, you need to take laxatives to regularly pass stool. You must come to the procedure with a filled bladder– this will provide high-quality visualization of the uterus, ovaries, the bladder itself, the prostate gland and seminal vesicles in men.
The filled bladder will lift the intestinal loops, allowing the doctor to examine hard-to-reach areas of the organs.
Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)
The most common indication for transrectal ultrasound examination is the need to examine the prostate and seminal vesicles. Only in some cases the procedure is performed on women if it is necessary to examine their genitals or bladder. This may be due to damage to the surface of the skin in the pelvic or vaginal area, which prevents more appropriate diagnostic techniques.
The principle of performing TRUS in men
To carry out the examination, it will be necessary to cleanse the intestines, because a pelvic ultrasound is performed using the transrectal method by inserting a special emitter into the rectum. The procedure is not painful, since the diameter of the sensor is small, it enters easily and painlessly and to reduce discomfort The diagnostician applies a special gel to it.
During such an examination, the bladder should be empty, since, otherwise, it will only interfere with examining the organs, squeezing them. The procedure, like the other two, lasts approximately 20 minutes; only in some cases it may be delayed due to a detailed study of the disputed area of the organ being examined.
Transvaginal ultrasound
This technique is used quite often, because pelvic ultrasound shows a large number of female diseases. reproductive sphere, and urinary system. The procedure is carried out by inserting a specially designed emitter into the vagina, the diameter of which does not exceed 3 cm. This method does not require a completely filled bladder; it will be enough to simply not urinate for two hours before the test.
The transvaginal method allows you to assess the condition of the endometrium (inner uterine layer), myometrium (muscular membrane) and ovaries. A method that studies the thickness of the endometrium and its deviations from the norm is called M Echo, and is considered mandatory when carrying out diagnostic measures for preventive purposes. The examination makes it possible to identify abnormal development female reproductive organs, the presence of polyposis and cystic formations, as well as oncological formations. The procedure, with a probability of up to 98%, will reveal the causes of infertility that other examinations could not determine.
For women of childbearing age who have not yet reached menopause, there are certain recommendations for when to be diagnosed. It will be optimal if it is carried out in the first 7–10 days of the cycle, since it is at this time that it is easiest to identify diseases of the uterus, ovaries, and recognize polycystic disease, erosion and other disorders. If you suspect a fibroid (benign tumor of the muscle layer) of the uterus, it is better to do an ultrasound after your period.
To detect endometriosis, it is necessary to be examined before menstruation. When planning pregnancy and other situations that require monitoring of folliculogenesis, the procedure is performed on days 5, 9 and 14–17 of the cycle. In case of irregular periods or after menopause, the day of diagnosis does not matter. The same principle applies in the case of emergency situations requiring urgent medical care.
Ultrasound allows you to find out about pregnancy at 1–2 weeks
For women of childbearing age, such a procedure can sometimes be a cause for joy, because an ultrasound of the pelvic organs shows pregnancy in the early stages, sometimes even earlier than tests. And then, to monitor the development of the fetus, the procedure is carried out at least three times during the gestation period - once in each trimester. And if necessary, it can be performed more often - after all, ultrasound does not have a harmful effect on either the mother’s body or the baby.
When is ultrasound diagnostics necessary?
The procedure for examining the pelvic organs is used for the following manifestations, indicating the possible presence of pathological processes in the organs. These include:
- painful sensations pulling, stabbing, cutting character in the lower abdomen;
- traumatic injuries of the genitourinary system and pelvic organs;
- frequent false urges to empty the bladder:
- reproductive dysfunction;
- an admixture of pus or blood in the urine;
- pain when urinating.
In addition, in women:
- bleeding not associated with normal menstrual cycle;
- violations of the regularity of the cycle and its other pathologies.
And also for men:
- decreased sexual activity;
- erectile disfunction.
The procedure is also carried out if it is necessary to monitor benign and malignant neoplasms located in the pelvis. For children, an examination is prescribed to look for the causes of premature puberty or its delay and to study OMT anomalies (for example, hermaphroditic genitalia). Among other things, ultrasound is prescribed during OMT biopsy, puncture and various surgical interventions, as well as when prescribing hormonal contraceptives to women and installing intrauterine devices.
What pathologies can be detected
During the diagnostic process, it is possible for a doctor to detect a fairly wide range of diseases of organs located in the pelvis. Such pathologies include:
- inflammatory processes– adnexitis, salpingoophoritis, endometritis, urethritis;
- benign neoplasms– cyst, fibroid, fibroma, adenoma;
- endometriosis, endometrial hyper- or hypoplasia;
- stones in the ureters and bladder.
Ovarian cyst is a fairly common pathology of the female reproductive system.
When performing an OMT ultrasound with Dopplerography, the doctor can study the nature and characteristics of blood circulation in the area under study, and establish the causes of its disturbance, such as the formation of thrombotic masses blocking the lumen of blood vessels, stenosis of blood vessels due to atherosclerotic plaques, congenital vascular malformations, oncological processes.
Such voluminous information makes it possible to obtain a complete picture of the OMT organs, and based on the results obtained, it will be easy for the doctor to make a conclusion and make a final diagnosis.
Transcription of research materials
Based on the resulting image as a result of recording the displayed ultrasonic waves, the diagnostician assesses the condition of the areas under study pelvic organs. During the procedure, the size and echogenicity of the structure are studied. As a rule, such a study is carried out not by a general sonologist, but by a urologist or gynecologist.
The diagnostician evaluates the size, structure, location of the uterus and cervix, ovaries and bladder. Determines the presence of follicles in the ovaries, stones in the kidneys and bladder, as well as pathological formations in the above organs and the large intestine. In the medical report, the doctor describes in detail all existing violations or indicates that no deviations from the norm have been identified.
If compaction of the uterine walls or tubes is detected, the doctor will most likely conclude that there is an oncological process. Oval or round areas on the image usually turn out to be fibroids or cysts. A decrease in the size of the uterus and at the same time an increase in the ovaries indicates the formation of polycystic disease. Changes in echogenicity in the layers of the uterus will confirm the presence of fibroids or endometriosis.
But, of course, a non-specialist will not be able to understand the results of an ultrasound, and even the diagnostician does not make a final diagnosis. He just describes the picture of the state of the organs, and all conclusions are already made by the attending physician, specializing in a specific area. Therefore, the patient is given the results in photographs and on electronic media and is sent for consultation to a specialized specialist for an appointment, if necessary, therapeutic measures.
It should be remembered that any even minor symptom can be a consequence of developing pathological process, and there is no need to convince yourself that it will pass on its own. OMT ultrasound is a simple and completely painless procedure that is likely to give highly informative results. And if you have doubts or concerns, then you can read multiple reviews of those who have passed it and with peace of mind go for examination.
