Transabdominal pelvic ultrasound (TAUS)

Transabdominal pelvic organ ultrasound is a non-invasive and safe imaging method used to evaluate the organs and anatomical structures of the female pelvic region through the anterior abdominal wall.

The examination allows assessment of the uterus, endometrium, ovaries, cervix, and other pelvic structures, providing information about their size, shape, structure, and possible changes.

Ultrasound contributes to the detection, monitoring, and evaluation of various gynecological conditions, as well as assessment of the condition of the female reproductive organs according to medical indications.

Indications

• pain or discomfort in the pelvic region;
• menstrual cycle disorders;
• abnormal uterine bleeding;
• suspicion of ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, or other pelvic masses;
• monitoring of known gynecological conditions;
• infertility evaluation;
• suspicion of endometriosis;
• confirmation and evaluation of early pregnancy, as recommended by the physician;
• monitoring pregnancy development according to medical recommendations;
• preventive gynecological examination;
• monitoring treatment effectiveness.

Diagnostic Method

The examination is performed using the transabdominal approach, with an ultrasound probe applied to the anterior abdominal wall.

The method uses high-frequency ultrasound waves and does not involve exposure to ionizing radiation.

Procedure

The patient lies on the examination table, and the physician applies a special gel to the abdominal skin to facilitate the transmission of ultrasound waves.

The ultrasound probe is moved across the surface of the examined area to obtain images of the evaluated anatomical structures.

The examination takes approximately 15–30 minutes and is painless.

Contraindications

Transabdominal pelvic organ ultrasound has no absolute contraindications.

The examination can be performed in patients of different ages, according to medical indications.

Limitations

The quality of the examination may be influenced by the patient’s anatomical characteristics, excessive intestinal gas, or other factors that may limit the visualization of anatomical structures.

Ultrasound results should be interpreted in the context of the clinical picture and, when necessary, complemented by additional investigations.

Advantages

• non-invasive and painless method;
• no exposure to ionizing radiation;
• allows evaluation of pelvic anatomical structures using a safe and accessible method;
• can be repeated whenever necessary;
• provides real-time imaging;
• contributes to early detection and monitoring of gynecological conditions.
   

Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/4993-transvaginal-ultrasound
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/4997-pelvic-ultrasound
https://www.webmd.com/women/what-is-a-pelvic-ultrasound
https://familydoctor.org/pelvic-ultrasound/