Probability of fallopian tube and ovarian detection with transvaginal ultrasonography in normal women

abstract

Objective: Some ovarian malignancies may originate in the fallopian tube. The feasibility of ultrasonographically visualizing the fallopian tube is presented.

Methods: In total, 549 normal women participated in the fallopian tube visualization trial, while ovarian visualization was studied in 43,521. Chi-square analysis, t-tests and multivariate analysis determined significance and interactions.

Results: Ovaries were observed in 82.7% while fallopian tubes were detected in 77.2% of women and 85.2% of the time when an ovary was detected. Age, BMI or parity was not significantly different when one or both fallopian tubes were visualized. Elevated BMI had slightly greater influence than age in limiting visualization of the fallopian tubes in multivariate analysis.  

Conclusion: Fallopian tubes can often be identified sonographically. Ovarian visualization provides the strongest indicator favoring fallopian tube detection. Thus, ultrasonographic examinations for adnexal cancer could include evaluation of fallopian tubes even in women >60 years and in women with BMI ≥25.