Transrectal ultrasonography of anorectal diseases: Advantages and disadvantages

Abstract

Transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) has been widely accepted as a popular imaging modality for evaluating the lower rectum, anal sphincters, and pelvic foor in patients with various anorectal diseases. It provides excellent visualization of the layers of the rectal wall and of the anatomy of the anal canal. TRUS is an accurate tool for the staging of primary rectal cancer, especially for early stages. Although magnetic resonance imaging is a modality complementary to TRUS with advantages for evaluating the mesorectum, external sphincter, and deep pelvic infammation, three-dimensional ultrasonography improves the detection and characterization of perianal fstulas and therefore plays a crucial role in optimal treatment planning. The operator should be familiar with the anatomy of the rectum and pelvic structures relevant to the preoperative evaluation of rectal cancer and other anal canal diseases, and should have technical profciency in the use of TRUS combined with an awareness of its limitations compared to magnetic resonance imaging.