Role of transperineal ultrasound in evaluation of patients with perianal inflammatory disorders

Abstract

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to study the degree of accuracy of transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) in pre-operative evaluation and follow-up of cases with perianal inflammatory disorders in relation to MRI findings. Thirty patients with symptoms and signs of perianal inflammatory disorders underwent TPUS and pelvic MRI examinations. The radiologist who performed the TPUS was blinded to MR findings and was asked to comment on the site of the internal opening and extension of the tract, any related side branches or collections. Results The overall accuracy of TPUS in detection of the site of internal opening of perianal tracts was 83.33%, with sensitivity of 91.30%. TPUS showed sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 100% in detection of horseshoe collections. The overall accuracy of TPUS in detection of perianal abscesses was 93.33% with specificity of 100%. TPUS showed sensitivity of 50.00%, specificity of 92.31% and accuracy of 86.67% in visualization of side branches. TPUS showed sensitivity of 33.33%, specificity of 88.89% and overall accuracy of 83.33% in detection of supralevator extension of perianal tracts. TPUS correctly classified (23/30) perianal tracts with accuracy of 76.7%. Conclusions TPUS can be used as a first diagnostic tool in patients with perianal inflammatory disorders and related pathologies, particularly horseshoe collections which can change the operative decision made by the surgeon. TPUS can be used in repeated follow-up during the course of management of perianal inflammatory disorders or when other imaging modalities are unavailable or contra-indicated.