Pelvic drainage may be performed when a fluid-filled or otherwise indeterminate mass is detected within the pelvis or uterus.
A preliminary gynaecological ultrasound will be performed prior to the procedure to assess the pelvic anatomy and allow for appropriate procedural planning.
Once suitability for pelvic drainage has been confirmed, the procedure will commence much like a transvaginal ultrasound. The external genitalia will be cleaned under sterile technique with a warmed aqueous chlorhexidine solution. A speculum is passed into the vagina, and the cervix is cleaned with Betadine.
Our radiologist will introduce local anesthetic to the cervix or area in which the needle is to pass.
The speculum is then removed, and a small, thin probe with a biopsy guide device attached is positioned into the vagina. The needle is inserted into the biopsy guide device and introduced into the area of interest. Reverse pressure is applied to aspirate (or drain) fluid.
Following the procedure, you will be monitored in clinic for 30 minutes and you will be consulted about aftercare. The aspirated fluid is sent for pathological analysis.
