Publication:

Spectrum of ultrasonographic findings in gynaecological emergencies in a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital

Background Gynaecological emergencies are a common cause of morbidity and mortality among women of reproductive age group worldwide and can be life threatening. They can be easily managed if diagnosed early. Ultrasonography (USS) is a readily available and excellent diagnostic tool in the prompt and accurate diagnosis of these conditions. This is a comparative study aimed at evaluating the ultrasonographic findings in gynaecological emergencies and comparing with the clinical diagnosis.

Methods 400 patients presenting with suspected gynaecological emergencies at the National Hospital, Abuja were evaluated. The USS findings of these patients were recorded and matched with their socio-demographic parameters and the radiological diagnosis was then compared with the clinical diagnosis at presentation.

Results The mean age of participants was 34.2±7.5 years. Pregnancy related emergencies were the most common, making up 65.8%. Abortion was the most common emergency seen. Pregnancy related cases were commoner in the younger age group 20-39 years. A higher proportion of USS diagnosis for pregnancy related cases (96.7%) corresponded with the clinical diagnosis when compared to a smaller proportion for non-pregnancy related cases (80.6%), and this had significant correlation (x2=256.12, df=1, p<0.0001)

Conclusions USS evaluation of gynaecological emergencies as seen in this study, allows for quick and accurate diagnosis so that appropriate emergent care can be instituted to improve the outcome in these cases.