Advanced Gynaecology Ultrasound

The Advanced Gynaecology Ultrasound course is designed for current ultrasound practitioners aiming to elevate their expertise. The course offers access to King’s E-learning And Teaching Service (KEATS), which provides foundational knowledge through pre-recorded talks, ensuring participants are well-prepared before diving into more complex topics. The first part of the course, delivered online, covers subjects presented by leading experts, with a panel discussion and live Q&A session.

The curriculum is structured to cover critical areas of gynaecological ultrasound, including the examination of the cervix, uterus, posterior compartment, ovaries, and adnexae. It integrates the International Ovarian Tumour Analysis (IOTA) and International Endometrial Tumour Analysis (IETA) protocols into daily practice, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and patient care. The course also delves into the nuances of endometriosis, its various forms, and associated symptoms, providing insights into acute gynaecology and early pregnancy assessments.

Participants will gain knowledge on the use of ultrasound in surgical settings, the provision of services for transgender individuals, and considerations for female fertility. The course emphasises the importance of proficient reporting in advanced gynaecology and introduces complementary imaging techniques for a holistic approach to female pelvic imaging. It also offers practical guidance for establishing an advanced gynaecology service, marking the transition from practitioner to expert.

The course provides an optional Day 2, for a more intimate learning experience, allowing participants to engage closely with expert faculty in small group settings. This day includes practical exercises with GE ultrasound machines, pelvic phantoms, and simulators, aimed at sharpening the ability to detect conditions such as endometriosis and adenomyosis. Additionally, it encompasses the differentiation of normal and abnormal ultrasound images, examination of interesting cases, and guidance on setting up a specialist service.

For those attending the in-person skills session, the course provides exclusive access to the Gordon Museum of Pathology, the UK's largest medical museum, offering a unique perspective on the correlation between ultrasound findings and real-life pathology. 

Overall, the course is a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, designed to empower ultrasound practitioners with the skills and confidence to excel in advanced gynaecology ultrasound and contribute to the advancement of women's healthcare.

For those wishing to develop expert competency in this field, delegates are encouraged to consider joining the PgCert/PgDip.

Pre-course online materials

1. How to do a basic gynae scan (refresher) and take measurements eg uterus, endometrium, ovaries.
2. Image Optimisation
3. Basic surgical pelvic anatomy
4. Taking a history
5. Writing a report
6. IOTA language
7. Types of endometriosis: superficial, deep, ovarian
8. Legal considerations and consent 

Day One: Online Topics

1. 3D Ultrasound and Congenital Uterine Anomalies
2. Ultrasound of the cervix
3. Transperineal ultrasound - a beginner's guide
4. Adenomyosis
5. Menstrual Disorders Clinic – fibroids and polyps
6. Deep Endometriosis: bladder and bowel Break
7. IOTA language, Simple Descriptors and ADNEX, ORADS
8. Pelvic mass clinic - 2step strategy and implementation
9. PMB clinic inclusive of cervical cancer - USS and hysteroscopy
10. Fertility
11. Transgender patient
12. Acute gynaecology
13. Ultrasound in theatre including for benign gynaecology and gynae-oncology
14. Introduction/implementation of endometriosis scanning services

The online lectures will conclude with a panel discussion on how to transition to expert and live Q&A.

Day Two: In person 

Practical stations in small groups

1. Image optimisation and basic scan technique
2. Ultrasound simulation
3. How to scan the posterior compartment
4. Endometriosis case review
5. Meet the expert
6. Endometriosis report template
7. Meet the surgeon
8. International Endometrial Tumour Analysis (IETA)
9. International Ovarian Tumour Analysis (IOTA)
10. Acute gynaecology cases

The in person practical session begins with an 'As Live' scan broadcast. Lunch is provided with activities at the Gordon Museum of Pathology.  The afternoon kicks off with a lecture on correlation between MRI and transvaginal ultrasound, concluding with an expert panel Q&A.

On successful completion, participants should be able to:

LO1 Describe anatomy and pathophysiology relating to advanced gynaecology ultrasound.

LO2. Apply appropriate scanning methods and image optimisation techniques, incorporating best practice guidelines for performing advanced gynaecology examinations.

LO3 Distinguish between normal and anomalous ultrasound findings that might be encountered during a gynaecology examination. This may require modifications to scanning technique as well as considering clinical history, symptoms, and information from other imaging modalities to provide an expert diagnostic opinion.

LO4. Formulate an accurate medical report communicating the results of an ultrasound examination, using expert judgement and synthesizing information from the patient’s medical history to answer a clinical question.

This course is suitable for health professionals with a background in ultrasound; Sonographers, Gynaecologists and Radiologists.

All participants must complete day 1 (online) to be eligible for the day 2 in person practical session. Places for the in person practical session will be limited to a maximum of 30 participants.

Day 1 (Thursday 4th July 2024) is open to all healthcare professionals including international delegates. A recording will be available for three days following the event for delegates to watch asynchronously.

Day 2 (Monday 8th July 2024) requires attendance at day 1 and transvaginal ultrasound experience plus PgCert gynaecology ultrasound/ RCOG gynaecology and early pregnancy ultrasound training (previously known as the intermediate ultrasound in gynaecology) or equivalent.