Utility of ultrasound in the combat theater: experiences of a gynecologist during Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of ultrasound in a combat theater.


METHODS
A retrospective review of gynecology visits was evaluated at Camp Doha, Kuwait, from August 2003 through April 2004. Of the 1,737 visits, 237 required pelvic ultrasound. Demographic information, as well as the indications, diagnosis, and disposition of the patients, was compiled.


RESULTS
The average age of the patient requiring ultrasound was 28 +/- 8 years. The primary presenting complaint was pelvic pain. Forty percent with pelvic pain had no identifiable cause. The most common final diagnosis was pregnancy. Of the 237 visits, the use of ultrasound resulted in 136 return-to-duty dispositions. Of the 31% who were administratively redeployed, the majority were secondary to pregnancy.


CONCLUSIONS
Gynecologic ultrasound was found to be a very useful tool in the combat theater. Ultrasound resulted in improved diagnostic ability and enhanced reassurance to both provider and patient.
Albright
Todd S
TS
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC 20307, USA.
Gehrich
Alan P
AP
Wright
Johnnie
J
Lettieri
Christine F
CF
Dunlow
Susan G
SG
Buller
Jerome L
JL
D000328:Adult; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006176:Gynecology / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D007493:Iraq; D007730:Kuwait; D008875:Middle Aged; D008887:Military Medicine / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008889:Military Personnel; D017699:Pelvic Pain / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013673:Technology Assessment, Biomedical; D014463:Ultrasonography; D014481:United States; D014857:Warfare