Ultrasounds and Endometrial Biopsies
Endometrial biopsies and ultrasonography are important diagnostic procedures in assessing gynaecological disorders. Diseases of the female reproductive system which can often affect fertility can be diagnosed with the use of these tests. The ultrasound for example is especially useful in assessing the structure of the ovaries. The ovaries are vital of ovulation. Without ovaries ovulation is impossible. Without ovulation natural fertilization is impossible.
The endometrial biopsy has a reserved role in fertility assessments. It is indicated when diseases of the endometrium are implicated in the cause of the infertility. For example endometriosis is a special condition which affects the lining of the uterus. This abnormality can affect fertility as well. When this condition as well as others are suspected an endometrial biopsy may be preformed, to confirm the diagnosis. Other indications for endometrial biopsy include endometritis, internal fibroids, and endometrial cancer.
Ultrasound
The ultrasound has come along way since the black and white hazy, snow images of the past. With the advent of Doppler ultrasound these images are enhanced using color gradients. With improved contrast and image clarity, the diagnosis can be more accurate and reliable. The Ultrasound can be used to evaluate disease in both men and women. In men conditions such as cryptorchism, varicocele, testicular torsion, and testicular trauma can be evaluated using ultrasound technology.Cryptorchism is the medical term for testis which fails to descend into the scrotum. This is commonly diagnosed in the early years of childhood. During male reproductive development the testes originate within the lower abdomen, and migrate slowly down towards the scrotum. When this process fails to occur the scrotal sac remains empty. In some cases the testis will eventually migrate down as the child grows older, but when that doesn’t happen, an ultrasound can be used to locate it within the body. The ultrasound image provides the surgeon with a roadmap on where and how to proceed. Varicocele is a common cause of male infertility, and it can easily be diagnosed with the aid of the ultrasound. This is a disease of the veins within the groin; the disruption in proper venous flow can impact the testis and thus affect fertility.
Testicular torsion is a serious condition often requiring emergency surgery, again the ultrasound can prove to be a valuable resource due to its quick availability, and ease of use. In females the ultrasound is even more valuable; it can be used to evaluate the ovaries, the uterus and even the fallopian tubes. Sometimes a pregnancy occurs in the fallopian tubes, an abnormal site of implantation. This can be life threatening to the mother if it is not properly diagnosed and treated in time. Other conditions where an ultrasound would be helpful include; polycystic ovarian disease, ovarian cancer, and fibroids.
