ABSTRACT
This article describes the basic technology and technique behind modified virtual colonoscopy (MVC). It is accompanied by images illustrating the possibility of MVC to advance the imaging for endometriosis beyond the current modalities of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound. A quantification system is described that will ultimately make staging and multicenter prospective scientific studies possible for rectogenital and disseminated endometriosis.
Subject(s)
Colonic Diseases/diagnostic imaging , Colonography, Computed Tomographic/methods , Endometriosis/diagnostic imaging , Radiography, Abdominal/methods , Female , Humans , Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted/methodsABSTRACT
This clinical opinion explores the current "zeitgeist" of minimally invasive gynaecological surgery (MIGS) as reflected in opinions expressed at the 40th AAGL conference held in Hollywood, Florida. It addresses concerns relating to the introduction of MIGS globally and the current position of robotic surgery in relation to conventional minimally invasive techniques like vaginal hysterectomy and minilaparotomy. It also explores challenges relating to MIGS in the healthcare environment of the 21st century.
Subject(s)
Gynecologic Surgical Procedures/trends , Laparoscopy/trends , Laparotomy/trends , Congresses as Topic , Female , Gynecologic Surgical Procedures/methods , Humans , Robotics , United StatesABSTRACT
In this study, we modified the standard virtual colonoscopy technique to diagnose deep infiltrating pelvic endometriosis. The following modifications were used: (1) insertion of a large obstetric tampon high into the vagina; (2) insertion of a Foley catheter into the rectum and insufflation with CO(2); and (3) scanning only the pelvis. We used a Toshiba Aquillion 64-multidetector computed tomography scanner coupled to a 3-D workstation. By employing various reconstruction modules such as endo-luminal fly-through, cubed volume, 2-D multiplanar reconstruction, 3-D transparent view, and 3-D volume-rendered and maximum intensity projection, we were able to demonstrate deep infiltrating pelvic endometriosis in bowel, urinary tract, and rectovaginal and retroperitoneal spaces.
