From the Guidelines
Tampons can be visible on imaging modalities, including ultrasound, as they typically appear as hyperechoic structures within the vagina, often creating acoustic shadowing. When it comes to imaging the female reproductive system, particularly the cervix, transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) is the preferred method due to its high reproducibility and ability to provide complete visualization of the cervix 1.
In the context of assessing the gravid cervix, TVUS allows for the measurement of cervical length (CL), which is a significant predictor of spontaneous preterm birth (PTB) 1. However, the visibility of tampons on TVUS is not explicitly mentioned in the provided evidence.
Considering the principles of ultrasound imaging, it is reasonable to assume that tampons would be visible on TVUS as hyperechoic structures, similar to their appearance on other ultrasound modalities. This is because tampons are typically made of absorbent materials that would reflect sound waves and appear bright on ultrasound images.
Key points to consider when interpreting pelvic imaging include:
- Asking patients about tampon use before undergoing pelvic imaging to help radiologists accurately interpret findings
- Being aware of the potential for tampons to be mistaken for pathological conditions or foreign bodies
- Using TVUS as the preferred method for assessing the gravid cervix due to its high reproducibility and ability to provide complete visualization of the cervix 1.
Overall, while the provided evidence does not directly address the visibility of tampons on TVUS, it is likely that tampons would be visible as hyperechoic structures on ultrasound imaging, and clinicians should be aware of this when interpreting pelvic imaging results.
From the Research
Imaging of Tampons
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that discusses the visibility of tampons on imaging 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies primarily focus on toxic shock syndrome, tampon loss, and the regulation of intravaginal medical devices, but do not address the visibility of tampons on imaging modalities such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds.
- However, it can be inferred that if a tampon is lost or retained, imaging studies may be used to locate it, but the provided evidence does not specifically mention the visibility of tampons on imaging 4.
Tampon Loss and Retrieval
- A study on tampon loss found that in 25% of cases, a lost tampon was found on physical examination, suggesting that imaging may not always be necessary for retrieval 4.
- The same study highlights the importance of thorough examination of adolescents presenting with tampon loss, as the lost tampon was found in a higher rate among adolescents compared to older women 4.
Regulation of Intravaginal Medical Devices
- The US FDA regulates menstrual tampons and vaginal pessaries as medical devices, subject to premarket and postmarket regulatory controls 6.
- However, this information does not provide insight into the visibility of tampons on imaging modalities.