VP62.21: Quantitative shear wave ultrasound elastography in patients with deep endometriosis

Abstract

Objectives: We aimed to assess the knowledge of the lay general population regarding the utility and availability of tools to diagnosis endometriosis, with special attention on ultrasound. Methods: An international cross-sectional e-mail survey study was performed between August and October 2019. Questions were designed by the study team and piloted on a small group of volunteers. The e-survey was distributed globally via patientand community-endometriosis groups using social media. The survey consisted of 23 questions and focused on the diagnosis of endometriosis. The primary study outcome was to understand the international knowledge of ultrasound utility for diagnosing endometriosis. Responses were summarised using numbers and percentages, and comparisons were made using chi-squared tests. Results: There were 5302 respondents, representing 73 countries, with a mean age of 25.5 years. Female-identifying individuals made up the majority of the respondents (98.5%). 84.0% of respondents stated they had been previously diagnosed with endometriosis, 71.5% of which were diagnosed at the time of surgery. Ultrasound and MRI were the methods of diagnosis in 6.5% and 1.8%, respectively. 28.8% and 16.6% of respondents believed ultrasound and MRI could diagnose endometriosis, respectively. In those diagnosed by surgery, 21.7% knew about ultrasound as a method of diagnosis compared to 51.5% knowing in those not diagnosed by surgery (p < 0.001). 58.4% of respondents do not believe they could access an advanced TVS in their region. Conclusions: The majority of respondents had previously been diagnosed with endometriosis. As such, the respondents may represent an above-average educated sample for endometriosis diagnosis. Still, there are major gaps in the understanding of diagnosing endometriosis using non-invasive imaging for this study population. To reduce the reliance on invasive diagnostic laparoscopy, we must work to improve the awareness of the lay population on the utility of non-invasive imaging, especially ultrasound.