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Computed tomography for evaluation of puerperal infections
C E Brown1, D H Dunn, R Harrell
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75235.
Surgery, Gynecology & Obstetrics
|April 1, 1991
Summary
Pelvic computed tomography aids in diagnosing persistent puerperal infection by revealing abnormalities not found in clinical exams. However, results require correlation with clinical findings for accurate patient assessment.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Persistent puerperal infection requires accurate diagnostic tools.
- Clinical pelvic examinations may not identify all sources of infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of pelvic computed tomography (CT) in diagnosing persistent puerperal infection.
- To correlate CT findings with clinical and surgical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Pelvic CT scans were performed on 74 women with persistent puerperal infection.
- CT findings were compared with clinical examinations and surgical results.
Main Results:
- Abnormal findings were present in 57 of 74 women.
- CT visualized pelvic masses in 29 women not detected clinically.
- CT diagnosed septic pelvic thrombophlebitis in 12 women with normal pelvic exams.
- Correlation between CT findings and uterine incisional necrosis/dehiscence was poor.
Conclusions:
- Pelvic CT is a valuable tool for evaluating persistent puerperal infection.
- CT findings must be interpreted in conjunction with clinical data for optimal patient management.