The Diagnostic Accuracy of Transvaginal Ultrasound for Detection of Ureteral Involvement in Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the accuracy of transvaginal ultrasound (TVU) for the diagnosis of ureteral involvement in women with deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). Methods: The meta-analysis included primary studies comparing the use of TVU for diagnosing endometriotic involvement of the ureter, using laparoscopic surgery and histological diagnosis as the reference standard. Search was performed in several databases (Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed/MEDLINE). The studies' quality and bias risk were assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Study-2 (QUADAS-2). Diagnostic performance was estimated by assessing pooled sensitivity and specificity. Results: A total of 496 citations were found. Six articles were ultimately selected for this systematic review and meta-analysis after the inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.81 (95% CI: 0.42–0.96), 1.00 (95% CI: 0.93–1.00). The heterogeneity observed was high for both sensitivity and specificity. Overall risk of bias was low. Conclusion: TVU is a valuable tool for the pre-operative identification of ureteral involvement by DIE.