A Review of the Applications of Intraoperative Ultrasound Guidance in Cervical Cerclage and Selected Gynecological Procedures

Abstract

Introduction: Many gynecologic procedures may benefit from the use of real-time ultrasonography. The goal of this review is to summarize the use of ultrasound in some of the main gynecologic procedures, with focus on cervical cerclage procedure. Recent findings: Ultrasound guidance has been shown to decrease both operative time and complication rates in curettage procedures. In addition, intraoperative ultrasound use reduces recurrence rates after hysteroscopic resection of uterine myoma or septa. Ultrasound guidance may improve the efficiency of cervical cerclage by direct visualization of tightening and assist in measures of prognostic factors following the procedure. Conclusion: Intraoperative ultrasound guidance appears to be a safe and valuable tool for the gynecologic surgeon. It may reduce complication and re-operation rates and may improve the efficacy of some procedures.