Transvaginal ultrasound examination + Elastography

Transvaginal Ultrasound Examination + Elastography

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Transvaginal ultrasound examination (TVU) is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed images of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures. This procedure is often combined with elastography, a complementary imaging technique that assesses the stiffness or elasticity of tissues.

The Procedure and Its Applications

During a transvaginal ultrasound examination, a specialized transducer probe is gently inserted into the vagina. This probe emits high-frequency sound waves that reflect off the internal structures, creating real-time images on a monitor. The close proximity of the probe to the reproductive organs allows for highly detailed and accurate imaging.

Elastography, when combined with TVU, provides additional information about the stiffness of tissues. It works by analyzing the way the tissues deform or distort when subjected to gentle compression from the ultrasound probe. Stiffer tissues, such as tumors or fibroids, deform differently than softer, healthy tissues.

TVU and elastography are commonly used in the evaluation of various gynecological conditions, such as uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometrial abnormalities, and suspected pelvic masses. These techniques can help differentiate between benign and malignant lesions, guide treatment decisions, and monitor the effectiveness of therapies.

It's important to note that the results of a transvaginal ultrasound examination and elastography should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional, as they provide valuable diagnostic information but do not represent a definitive diagnosis.

Role of Transvaginal Ultrasound Examination + Elastography

Transvaginal ultrasound examination combined with elastography plays a crucial role in the evaluation and diagnosis of various gynecological conditions. This imaging technique provides detailed visualization of the female reproductive organs, enabling the detection of abnormalities and assessment of tissue characteristics.

Indications for Transvaginal Ultrasound Examination + Elastography

Transvaginal ultrasound examination with elastography is recommended in several situations, including:

• Evaluation of pelvic pain: This technique can help identify the cause of pelvic pain by assessing the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures.
• Investigation of abnormal uterine bleeding: Transvaginal ultrasound with elastography can aid in the diagnosis of uterine fibroids, polyps, or other uterine abnormalities that may contribute to abnormal bleeding.
• Assessment of ovarian masses or cysts: This imaging modality can accurately characterize ovarian masses, cysts, or tumors, providing valuable information for diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Monitoring of fertility treatments: During fertility treatments, transvaginal ultrasound with elastography can help monitor follicular development and assess the ovarian response to fertility medications.
• Evaluation of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): This technique can assist in the diagnosis of PID by visualizing the fallopian tubes and ovaries for signs of inflammation or abscess formation.

Preparation for the Transvaginal Ultrasound Examination + Elastography Procedure

The preparation for a transvaginal ultrasound examination with elastography involves the following steps:

• Emptying the bladder: It is recommended to have an empty bladder before the procedure. A full bladder can make the examination more uncomfortable and may obscure the view of the pelvic organs.
• Avoiding gas-producing foods: Consuming gas-producing foods, such as beans, broccoli, or carbonated beverages, before the examination should be avoided, as it can interfere with the clarity of the ultrasound images.
• Informing the healthcare provider: It is essential to inform the healthcare provider if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy, as this may affect the decision to perform the examination.
• Discussing any medical conditions: Inform the healthcare provider about any medical conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or ovarian cysts, as these may influence the examination and interpretation of the results.
• Avoiding douching or using vaginal medications: Refrain from douching or using vaginal medications, creams, or suppositories for at least 24 hours before the examination, as they can interfere with the ultrasound images.

Procedure for Transvaginal Ultrasound Examination + Elastography

The transvaginal ultrasound examination with elastography is typically performed by a healthcare provider, such as a radiologist or gynecologist. The procedure involves the following steps:

1. The patient will be asked to lie on an examination table with their knees bent and feet together, in a position similar to that for a pelvic examination.
2. A slender, lubricated ultrasound probe will be gently inserted into the vagina, allowing the healthcare provider to view the pelvic organs, including the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures.
3. The ultrasound probe emits high-frequency sound waves, which bounce off the internal structures, creating real-time images on a monitor.
4. The elastography portion of the examination involves applying gentle pressure to the tissues using the ultrasound probe, allowing for the assessment of tissue stiffness or elasticity.
5. The healthcare provider will carefully evaluate the images and elastography data to assess the condition of the pelvic organs and identify any abnormalities or areas of concern.

Transvaginal Ultrasound Examination + Elastography

Transvaginal ultrasound examination, also known as endovaginal ultrasound, is a diagnostic imaging technique used to visualize the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures. This procedure involves inserting a specialized ultrasound probe into the vagina, allowing for a closer and more detailed view of the pelvic region.

Elastography is an advanced ultrasound technique that can be incorporated into transvaginal ultrasound examinations. It provides information about the elasticity or stiffness of tissues, which can aid in the detection and characterization of various conditions, particularly in the evaluation of ovarian masses and the assessment of endometrial pathologies.

Sources:

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/pelvic-ultrasound
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/4993-transvaginal-ultrasound
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9267844/
https://www.healthline.com/health/transvaginal-ultrasound

IMPORTANT!

It's crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any pain or exacerbation of a medical condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic testing and treatment. Only a qualified specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate course of treatment. To obtain the most accurate and consistent assessment of test results, it is recommended to have them conducted at the same laboratory, as different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.