fetal and maternal imaging Flashcards
what are the forms of imaging?
USS
CT scan
MRI
invasive procedure - surgical or radiological
why may a transvaginal USS be performed?
to view the endometrium or the lining of the uterus, including its thickness and the ovaries
may also be a good way to evaluate the muscular walls of the uterus called the myometrium
what is sonohysterography?
Sonohysterography is a specialized procedure by which fluid, usually sterile saline (then called saline infusion sonography or SIS), is instilled into the uterine cavity, and gynecologic sonography performed at the same time
why may sonohysterpgraphy be performed?
allows for a more indepth investigation of the uterine cavity.
what are USS performed to detect?
uterine anomalies uterine scars endometrial polyps fibroids cancer
what are the benefits of USS?
preferred imaging for the diagnosis and monitoring of pregnant woman and their unborn babies
USS provides real-time imaging making it a good tool for minimally invasive procedure such as needle biopsies and needle aspiration
Pelvic USS can help identify and evaluate a Varity of urinary and reproductive system disorders in both sexes without even the minimal risk associated with x-ray exposure
no known risk!!!!
what do you want to image to look for reasons of infertility ?
cervix
uterine cavity
fallopian tubes
ovaries
what is a hysterosalpinography?
Catheter inserted into the uterine cavity
Contrast injected into the cavity under pressure
Contrast track along the fallopian tubes
X Ray image obtained
what are some congenital anomalies of the uterus?
unicornuate uterus
Bi cornuate uterus
tubal occlusions
when should imaging be done during pregnancy?
early scan if clinical reason
12 week dating scan
20 week anomaly scan
additional scans depending on clinical need
what is looked for on 12 week dating scan ?
heart beat to assess viability
crown rump length to dat the pregnancy
number of foetuses
what do you look for on the 20 week anomaly scan?
it is a detailed whole body scan
to assess the nature of the abnormality - viable or not
to assess the extent of the abnormality - referral to fetal maternal specialist
assess placenta and its location
what further tests can be done to detect anomalies?
blood test
amniocentesis
further USS
MRI
are MRI used during pregnancy?
No radiation unlike CT and X-Ray Thought to be safe Only for clinical need Not in first trimester Only following tertiary referral ultrasound opinion Limited availability in the UK Sheffield centre of excellence
• Images easier for parents to understand
what are the cons of MRI
Expensive Limited availability Limited experience Still developing Not routine on NHS
people may be claustrophobic
movement problems
20 slices in 20 seconds
30-40 mins in scanner, longer if twins
