Imaging Modalities in Gynecology

Abstract

Although ultrasound is the primary imaging modality for most gynecologic diagnoses and conditions, knowledge of other diagnostic imaging procedures is important to gynecologists, emergency room physicians and radiologists who care for women of all ages. Since the early 1960s when ultrasound was introduced for the use in obstetrics and gynecology, other imaging techniques have rapidly come into play due to the tremendous advances in computer technology and in the field of engineering. It behooves us to become familiar and knowledgeable about the differences in these imaging techniques in order to gather the most information in the shortest amount of time to care for patients in the most efficient and cost-effective way. This review is meant for the use of most practicing physicians that are exposed to common as well as uncommon gynecologic conditions; therefore the primary imaging modalities discussed in this paper are limited to ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Objectives Understanding of the strengths and limitations of ultrasound, MRI and CT Obtaining knowledge of when to apply the most appropriate imaging technique for a certain clinical situations