Transanal ultrasound - THDLAB - COM

  • Transanal ultrasound: what is it for?
  • Transanal ultrasound: how is it performed?
  • The advantages of transanal ultrasound

Transanal ultrasound: what is it for?

In case of anorectal diseases, the specialist may consider a transanal ultrasound to be necessary.

Transanal ultrasound (EAUS) or endoanal ultrasound allows visualising the anatomy and functioning of the sphincters and of the pelvic floor. This examination therefore allows to identify possible alterations which may be at the basis of debilitating problems such as faecal incontinence or obstructed defecation syndrome.

The most recent ultrasound scanners allow to carry out a 360° transanal ultrasound indicated for:

  • assessment of benign anorectal diseases, such as abscesses, fistulas, anal fissures, postpartum sphincter lesions, faecal incontinence, pelvic floor disorders, post-surgical outcomes of anorectal treatments.
  • evaluation and precise localisation of anorectal neoplasms.
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Transanal ultrasound: how is it performed?

The endoanal ultrasound is a non-invasive examination, normally not very bothersome and painless.

The ultrasound examination is also always preceded by a medical history and by a digital exploration. This way it is possible to check for the presence of stenoses or painful lesions.

During the examination, the proctologist inserts an adequately lubricated ultrasound probe in the anorectal canal and observes the sphincter structure on the ultrasound system.

The latest generation ultrasound scanners are equipped with rotating ultrasound probes. These probes offer a 360° view of the pelvic floor and of the sphincter muscles with a high level of detail.

The exam generally lasts about 5-10 minutes. The result is instantly available and allows the most appropriate diagnostic-therapeutic procedure to be evaluated immediately.

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The advantages of transanal ultrasound

Transanal ultrasound is a diagnostic test which has many advantages:

  • non-invasive
  • painless
  • brief duration
  • evaluating the anatomy and functioning of the sphincter muscles
  • no anaesthesia necessary

Unlike traditional ultrasound scans, 360° transanal ultrasound allows to see in detail the sphincter muscles and the surrounding ligaments, as well as the vagina, uterus or prostate. Transanal ultrasonography therefore allows the precise identification of lesions or anomalies.

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