Sonographer-acquired ultrasound protocol for deep endometriosis

Abdom Radiol (NY). 2020 Jun;45(6):1659-1669. doi: 10.1007/s00261-019-02341-4.

Abstract

Endovaginal sonographic imaging has been shown to reliably identify pelvic endometriosis, but most United States imaging practices do not adequately assess locations and features of endometriosis beyond ovarian endometrioma. In this article, we propose a protocol for sonographer-acquired images and maneuvers to be interpreted subsequently by sonologists (radiologists or gynecologists). The purpose is to improve the sensitivity of endovaginal sonography for the detection of endometriosis in imaging practices that involve the non-physician sonographer as part of their workflow.

Keywords: Dysparenunia; Endometriosis; Pelvic pain; Rectosigmoid colon; Ultrasound; Uterosacral ligaments.

MeSH terms

  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Endometriosis* / diagnostic imaging
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Ultrasonography