[The place of ultrasound diagnosis in gynaecology]

The indications for the implementation of ultrasonic diagnosis in gynaecology is discussed. Whereas the differential diagnosis between cystic and solid tumours is relatively simple in those tumours which have extended beyond the true pelvis, a profound knowledge of the examination technique is necessary to diagnose smaller lesions confined to the true pelvis. Knowledge of the ultrasonic anatomy of the female pelvis is not only the basis for the diagnosis of tumour recurrence following operation and irradiation of genital tumours, but, moreover, for the exact planning of radiotherapeutic management and follow up evaluation of therapeutic success. It is also shown that echotomography enables the demonstration of physiological changes within the ovary during the menstrual cycle.