Three-dimensional (3D) Rectal Water Contrast Transvaginal Ultrasonography Versus Computed Colonography in the Diagnosis of Rectosigmoid Endometriosis

Three-dimensional Rectal Water Contrast Transvaginal Ultrasonography Versus Computed Colonography in the Diagnosis of Rectosigmoid Endometriosis

Rectosigmoid involvement by endometriosis causes intestinal symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, and dyschezia. A non-invasive diagnosis of bowel endometriosis is relevant to provide the patients information on the potential hormonal or surgical treatments. The objective of the current study was to compare the performance of three-dimensional rectal water contrast transvaginal ultrasonography (3D-RWC-TVS) and computed colonography (CTC) in predicting the presence and characteristics of rectosigmoid endometriosis.

Inclusion Criteria:

- pain and intestinal symptoms suggestive of rectosigmoid endometriosis

Exclusion Criteria:

• previous surgical diagnosis of intestinal endometriosis
• previous radiological diagnosis of intestinal endometriosis (based on Magnetic Resonance or double-contrast barium enema
• history of colorectal surgery (except appendectomy)
• contraindications to bowel preparation or computed colonography (such as non-- compliant patients and rectal malformations)
• previous bilateral ovariectomy
• psychiatric disorders