Australasian journal of ultrasound in medicine 

About: Australasian journal of ultrasound in medicine is an academic journal published by Wiley. The journal publishes majorly in the area(s): Medicine & Ultrasound. It has an ISSN identifier of 1836-6864. Over the lifetime, 436 publications have been published receiving 2301 citations.

Chronic pelvic pain.

Abstract: Definition Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP) is defined as intermittent or constant pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis of at least six months duration, not occurring exclusively with menstruation or intercourse and not associated with pregnancy. Chronic Pelvic Pain is a symptom, not a disease, and can result from many different entities. As there is a significant socio-economic impact, it is important to triage, diagnose and manage these patients efficiently and accurately.

Pelvic congestion syndrome.

Abstract: Background: The precise aetiology of pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) remains poorly understood but is believed to be multifactorial having mechanical, hormonal and psychological components. Materials and methods: Minimally invasive techniques of embolisation or sclerotherapy of the ovarian veins has become the mainstay of treatment for PCS. Studies report a technical success rates from 89-100% and clinical success rates of 58-100%. Conclusions: Embolisation and sclerotherapy can be done as a day surgery procedure concurrently with diagnostic venography and given current evidence provide better long term pain relief than medical therapy.

Tissue harmonic imaging.

Abstract: Ultrasound wave travels faster in compressive phase and slower during rarefaction (reduced particle density). This nonlinear propagation changes a part of the beams energy to harmonic frequencies. The second harmonic has a frequency which is twice the fundamental frequency and contains most of the harmonic energy. Harmonics are not produced in the superficial part of tissue. Harmonics are most prominent in the central section of the transmitted beam. Hence lateral resolution is improved in harmonic mode Reduced Image artefacts like reverberations, side and grating lobes Improved contrast resolution as less “noise” and clutter (better signal to noise ratio).

The development, structure and blood flow within the umbilical cord with particular reference to the venous system.

Abstract: The umbilical cord is a helical and tubular blood conduit connecting the foetus to the placenta. The umbilical cord achieves its final form by the 12th week of gestation and normally contains two arteries and a single vein, all embedded in Wharton's jelly. The structure of the umbilical cord receives only a cursory glance during many obstetric ultrasound examinations: with imaging limited to documenting the number of vessels within the cord and the insertion sites at the foetus and placenta. Extensive research into blood flow characteristics of the umbilical cord arteries has been undertaken and is now widely applied in contemporary ultrasound practice. In contrast, investigation of umbilical vein blood flow is only instigated in instances of foetal compromise when the spectral waveform of the ductus venosus and pulsations in the vein are scrutinised. The current level of ultrasound imaging of the umbilical vein demonstrates a lack of appreciation and knowledge about a structure that is crucial to sustaining foetal life. The goal of this review is to increase awareness of the importance of the umbilical cord. In addition, this review will provide an information platform for undertaking and critically analysing research into the umbilical cord by providing a summary of cord embryology, structure, foetal venous circulation and mechanisms of blood flow within the umbilical cord vein.