Get the Picture? – Imaging Tests for Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are usually discovered when women come in for their regular pelvic exam. When the gynecologist ‘feels’ the fibroids, next step would be to find out exactly what these fibroids look like. Imaging tests are ordered to determine the size, shape, and position of the fibroids. Yet, it is possible for fibroids not to be seen on ultrasound and x-rays. More imaging tests will then be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
When fibroids are rather large and cause symptoms, a diagnosis can easily be made and treatment can start as required. It is not easy to detect tiny fibroids, especially those that are hidden behind larger tumors. Assessing the symptoms and validating them through a combination of imaging tests help the doctor proceed with treatment.
Looking for Fibroids
Getting a picture of what’s inside the uterine area is important in determining what kind of treatment should be done. The location of the fibroids will affect the symptoms, treatment, and prognosis.
For instance, a large fibroid could be shown in imaging tests as growths in the uterine wall that protrude inwards into the womb. Such growth would result in heavy bleeding, abdominal pain, and difficulties getting pregnant. If the uterus is bound to sustain damage with the continued presence of the fibroid, the doctor could present a full hysterectomy as an option for treatment.
Imaging tests are also helpful in locating uterine fibroids for removal using non-invasive techniques. An MRI-guided focused ultrasound surgery, for example, makes use of an MRI scanner. Other fibroids removal procedures that rely heavily on imaging tools include myolysis, cryomyolysis, and uterine artery embolization.
Imaging Tools
Fibroids can be visualized using x-rays, ultrasounds, and MRI. When the patient is suspected to have fibroids, but they do not show on ultrasounds and x-rays, doctors order an MRI. These tests make use of electromagnetic and sound waves to create images of the uterus.
If a transvaginal ultrasound fails to reveal small fibroids, a laparoscopic ultrasound can be done. The scope used in laparoscopic ultrasound has been found in studies to reveal double the fibroids as the transducer of a transvaginal ultrasound can. A laparoscopic ultrasound can also be used to reveal fibroids growing in the external walls of the uterus. Another test involving the use of a scope is a hysteroscopy. More detailed images of the uterus and the fibroids can be produced by an MRI (2D) and a CT Scan (3D).
What’s Next
X-rays and ultrasounds do not always show uterine fibroids that are causing symptoms. There are other tests that could give a better picture of your uterus and fibroids. However, these tests could also be quite costly and, in the case of a laparoscopy and a hysterectomy, could require the use of anesthesia or a sedative. Find out from your doctor what your risks are when you go for these imaging tests. What you are looking for is a reliable test that could give you the most accurate picture so that you can choose the most appropriate and most effective treatment.
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