[Hedrocele, an unknown pelvic organ prolapse]

Area of Science:

• Pelvic floor disorders
• Gastroenterology
• Radiology

Background:

• Pelvic floor disorders are common and can cause debilitating symptoms.
• Hedrocele is an underdiagnosed pelvic pathology involving herniation into the recto-uterine pouch.
• This herniation can cause a mass effect on the anterior rectal wall.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the diagnostic challenges of hedrocele.
• To emphasize the utility of pelvic MRI in diagnosing pelvic floor dysfunction.
• To underscore the importance of preoperative diagnosis for patient management.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Employing both morphological and dynamic (in thrust) imaging sequences.
• Reviewing illustrative cases of hedrocele.

Main Results:

• Pelvic MRI enables comprehensive study of pelvic floor dysfunction.
• Dynamic MRI sequences are crucial for confirming diagnosis, especially preoperatively.
• Illustrative examples demonstrate the pathology and diagnostic utility of MRI.

Conclusions:

• Hedrocele diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion and advanced imaging.
• Pelvic MRI is a valuable tool for diagnosing hedrocele and other pelvic floor dysfunctions.
• Improved understanding and diagnosis of hedrocele can enhance patient care.