ENDOSCOPIC ULTRASOUND - A NEW INSTRUMENT FOR LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY

OBJECTIVE: Although laparoscopy is an important tool for evaluating pe lvic pathology, visualization is limited to the surface of structures. A method of seeing below the surface during laparoscopy could be usef ul. We report on our early experience with new laparoscopic ultrasound . STUDY DESIGN: Following diagnostic laparoscopy the pelvis is filled with fluid to obtain optimal imaging. A 10-mm ultrasound probe is intr oduced through the umbilical trocar and the uterus and adnexa examined . RESULTS: High-resolution images cart be obtained to delineate such a bnormalities as suspected ovarian cysts and uterine myomata. CONCLUSIO N: Endoscopic ultrasound is a new instrument that allows the surgeon t o evaluate and define pelvic pathology suspected at the time of laparo scopy. Endoscopic ultrasound may augment the diagnosis of subtle patho logic findings during laparoscopy.