Use of Radioactive Seed Localization to Guide Removal of a Nonpalpable Endometriotic Lesion: A Case Report

J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2020 Feb;27(2):551-554. doi: 10.1016/j.jmig.2019.10.013. Epub 2019 Oct 24.

Abstract

Extrapelvic endometriosis is a rare and usually misdiagnosed entity. Some extrapelvic endometriotic lesions are small and nonpalpable, which makes them difficult to locate and remove. Here, we report the use of radioactive seed localization to locate and guide the excision of a small, nonpalpable endometriotic lesion. A 32-year-old woman presented with disabling pain in the right inguinal area. Magnetic resonance imaging and abdominal ultrasound results showed an 11-mm nodule in the abdominal wall, in the vicinity of the groin, consistent with an endometriotic lesion. The radioactive seed was placed within the lesion with the help of ultrasonography, and excision was guided with a portable gamma camera. Complete excision of the endometriotic nodule was achieved. We propose radioactive seed localization as an accurate and feasible technique for the treatment of nonpalpable endometriotic lesions.

Keywords: Abdominal endometriosis; Extrapelvic endometriosis; Nonpalpable lesions; Radioactive seed localization.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Wall / diagnostic imaging*
  • Abdominal Wall / pathology
  • Abdominal Wall / surgery*
  • Adult
  • Endometriosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Endometriosis / surgery*
  • Female
  • Gynecologic Surgical Procedures / methods
  • Humans
  • Iodine Radioisotopes*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Palpation
  • Peritoneal Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Peritoneal Diseases / surgery*
  • Radioactive Tracers
  • Surgery, Computer-Assisted / methods*
  • Ultrasonography

Substances

  • Iodine Radioisotopes
  • Radioactive Tracers