Culdocentesis

Culdocentesis is a medical procedure that involves the puncture and aspiration of fluid from the pouch of Douglas (also known as the rectouterine pouch). This procedure is typically performed when a healthcare provider suspects that a patient may have a pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or an ectopic pregnancy.

Procedure

Culdocentesis is usually performed in a hospital or clinic setting. The patient is placed in the lithotomy position, with her legs bent and feet in stirrups. The healthcare provider then inserts a needle through the vaginal wall, into the pouch of Douglas. If fluid is present, it can be aspirated and sent to a lab for analysis.

Indications

Culdocentesis may be performed when a healthcare provider suspects that a patient has a PID or an ectopic pregnancy. It can also be used to detect ovarian cyst rupture or hemoperitoneum (blood in the peritoneal cavity).

Risks and Complications

As with any invasive procedure, culdocentesis carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, and injury to surrounding organs. In rare cases, the procedure may cause a small hole (perforation) in the uterus or bowel.

Alternatives

While culdocentesis can be a useful diagnostic tool, there are other methods available that may be less invasive and carry fewer risks. These include ultrasound imaging and laparoscopy.

See Also

• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Ovarian cyst
• Hemoperitoneum