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US signs of normal fallopian tubes
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 19.10.2021
The fallopian tubes
Using ultrasound, it is difficult to visualize unchanged fallopian tubes. Fallopian tubes are quite variable in size and position, and it is difficult to identify the pathology of the fallopian tubes, as long as there are no significant local changes, for example, an isolated increase in one of the tubes. If the tubes are filled with liquid, they are difficult to differentiate with the intestinal loops, although peristalsis should be determined in the intestine, while the fallopian tubes do not change positions for several hours. Obstruction of the fallopian tubes is not detected echographically until there is an expansion of the tube above the site of obstruction.
An increase in the part of the fallopian tube may occur with ectopic pregnancy; with a fluid-containing tubular, anechogenous (or mixed echogenicity) structure located near the uterus. However, pyosalpinx (tubercular or pyogenic genesis) looks quite similar. For the differentiation of hydro- and pyosalpinx, additional clinical information is needed.
Varicose veins of the pelvis
Dilation of pelvic veins may be accompanied by pain syndrome, especially in the premenstrual period. When the echography reveals multiple anehogennye, tubular structures around the uterus and sometimes between the uterus and the bladder. Occasionally, a single-valued vein is detected, and it can be mistaken for hydrosalpinx. For a differential diagnosis in this case, it is recommended that the patient be examined in a supine position with the head down. In this case, the dilated vein will be emptied, and the hydrosalpinx will not change its size.
There are many reasons for the appearance of formations in the pelvis. Ultrasound does not always differentiate these formations. Also it is necessary to remember that:
- Large education in the pelvis can cause compression of the ureter with the development of hydronephrosis. When identifying the formation in a small pelvis, it is necessary to examine the kidneys to exclude hydronephrosis.
- The formation of the intestine (inflammatory or parasitic genesis) can be mistaken for the formation of the pelvic organs. Try to determine the presence or absence of peristalsis.
- It is recommended to use cleansing enemas to remove food remnants from the intestine or to introduce fluids into the rectum to clarify the anatomy of the pelvic organs.