Culdocentesis
What is Culdocentesis?
Culdocentesis is a medical procedure used to diagnose and determine the diagnosis and to rule out pelvic inflammatory diseases (PID) in women. This procedure is more accurately referred to as pelvic cavity aspiration and involves the insertion of a needle into the pelvic cavity to sample fluid for laboratory diagnosis. The collected fluid is usually sent for a variety of laboratory tests to diagnose PID.
Preparation for Culdocentesis
Before undergoing a culdocentesis procedure, patients should be properly informed about the risks and benefits of this procedure. The patient must also clean the area around the abdomen and the vagina before this procedure can be performed. Furthermore, it is important that the patient give their consent to the doctor before the procedure can begin.
Culdocentesis Procedure
The doctor will first inspect the patient’s abdomen and the vagina to make sure that there are no signs of infection. The doctor will then ask the patient to lie down on their back and will position the patient in a way that is comfortable and convenient for the procedure. A local anaesthetic is generally used to reduce any pain. The doctor will then insert a sterile needle into the pelvic cavity to collect fluid. It is important that the needle is inserted at an angle and that the patient is asked to cough or bear down so that the needle does not puncture the intestine or any other organs.
Types of Culdocentesis
- Ultrasound guided culdocentesis
- Standard culdocentesis
- Surgical culdocentesis
Risks of Culdocentesis
- Infection
- Vaginal bleeding
- Damage to internal organs
- Excessive fluid buildup
- Nerve damage
- Peritonitis
- Pelvic abscess
Why is Culdocentesis Used?
Culdocentesis can be used to diagnose and determine diagnosis in cases where the cause of the pelvic pain or discomfort has not been found. This procedure is also useful for diagnosing and ruling out pelvic inflammatory diseases such as PID and Endometriosis.
When is Culdocentesis Used?
Culdocentesis is usually used when other treatments or investigations haven’t been successful. It is used to diagnose and/or rule out PID and other causes of pelvic pain. It is also used in cases where a pelvic exam has revealed tenderness or inflammation of the pelvic organs.