Investigation of the female pelvis.
Abnormalities of the female pelvis are commonly discovered in the evaluation of infertile couples. A systematic approach to diagnosing pathology requires the careful integration of both noninvasive and invasive testing. Transvaginal ultrasound imaging provides immediate and detailed information regarding the gross anatomy of the pelvis and is both a highly sensitive and specific test when used by skilled observers. Hysterosalpingography remains a helpful adjunct in discovering more subtle abnormalities, such as endometrial polyps and salpingitis isthmica nodosa. Invasive surgical tests are hysteroscopy and laparoscopy. These methods accurately define pathology, and in many cases pelviscopic instruments may be employed as a means of delivering surgical treatment. A systematic approach should be used for evaluating the female pelvis, taking into consideration the rationale behind utilizing various diagnostic procedures.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California School of Medicine, Los Angeles.
M V
MV
Sauer
D005260:Female; D005831:Genital Diseases, Female / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D007047:Hysterosalpingography; D015907:Hysteroscopy; D007247:Infertility, Female / Q000209:etiology; D010535:Laparoscopy; D014463:Ultrasonography