[Ultrasound diagnosis of pathologic changes of the uterine tube]

The possibilities of sonographic diagnosis of pathologic changes in the uterine tube are examined by means of a computerised automatic real-time scanner with a statistical B-scan of high resolution. It is not possible to isolate sonographically the anatomically unchanged tube or the tube obliterated as a result of salpingitis. Nevertheless, it is possible to effect an indirect diagnosis if the tube is at least unilaterally patent or if it is bilaterally occluded, by means of an extended form of sonography within the scope of a sonographically controlled hydropertubation via a phenomenon which the author describes an "positive" or "negative" "phenomenon of Douglas". Hence, sonographically monitored hydropertubation, together with hysterosalpingography or laparoscopic chromopertubation--with reservations--is a valuable diagnostic tool to help in clarifying the cause of sterility. Pathological changes of the tubes in the sense of a sactosalpinx of different contents (retained secretions) can be differentiated by sonography. A characteristic sonographic echo pattern is also seen if the tubes are conglutinated with an extremely low amount of liquid collected in the tube. Various pathological changes of the tube can be recognised sonographically directly and indirectly by means of sonography extended in this manner.