The use of ultrasound in the diagnosis of pelvic masses

Abstract

This paper consists of an analysis of 262 female patients referred for ultrasonic examination with a suspected pelvic mass. An attempt has been made to formulate diagnostic criteria for the various types of pelvic mass encountered. In the 262 patients examined 178 finally came to surgery, and of these ultrasound suggested the correct diagnosis in 78 patients and was helpful in a further 63 patients, a total of 141 (79 per cent). It is considered that these results would support our contention that ultrasound should be the first method of investigation in cases with a suspected pelvic mass other than those thought to be of intestinal origin.