Preliminary Diagnosis: Ectopic Pregnancy
I. What imaging technique is first-line for this diagnosis?
The first line imaging modality is a Gray Scale and Color Doppler sonographic evaluation of the pelvis (transvaginal and/or transabdominal).
II. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of this technique for diagnosing ectopic pregnancy.
Advantages
- Sonographic imaging does not expose patients to ionizing radiation.
- Sonographic imaging is a highly portable imaging modality.
- Sonographic imaging offers exquisite detail of the vascularity of the ovaries, uterus, and any potential ectopic pregnancies.
- Sonographic imaging is the gold standard in evaluating for an ectopic pregnancy.
- Sonographic imaging helps evaluate for any secondary complications from ectopic pregnancy.
III. What are the contraindications for the first-line imaging technique?
No specific contraindications to sonographic imaging exist.
IV. What alternative imaging techniques are available?
No specific alternative imaging techniques are available.
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