Ovarian Venous Duplex Ultrasound
Ovarian Venous Duplex Ultrasound
AIMS
Ovarian veins can have incompetent (faulty) valves, and may actually connect with and contribute to varicose veins in the leg. Incompetent pelvic veins may also produce pelvic symptoms in some people. This study aims to determine whether each ovarian vein is normal or if one or both are incompetent (ie have faulty valves). This helps determine if ligation of the ovarian vein is likely to be of benefit.
PATIENT PREPARATION
For morning scan appointments, fast from midnight the night before the examination (no food, fluid, no smoking, no chewing gum). For afternoon appointments, fast for 8 hours prior to your scan time. Diabetics using insulin should not fast. Diabetics not using insulin should notify us when booking the test, and we will endeavour to make your appointment early in the morning. If this is possible, we would like you to fast as above. All patients should take their usual oral medications with a small amount of water.
Wear loose clothing which allows the lower abdomen and both groins to be easily exposed. The scan is performed in complete privacy and does NOT involve internal or trans-vaginal intervention.
EXPLANATION OF STUDY TECHNIQUE
Jelly is placed on the skin of the lower abdomen and an ultrasound probe is pressed against the area. The ovarian veins are identified and the direction of blood flow is determined. The diameter of the ovarian vein is measured. Adjacent veins may also be examined.
STUDY TIME
15 – 20 minutes.
DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA
Each ovarian vein is either incompetent or competent.