B scan detection of pelvic masses: accuracy compared to the barium enema, intravenous pyelogram.

One hundred fifty nine pelvic ultrasonic examinations were performed; 54 were verified. The relative diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound, intravenous pyelograms, and barium enemas in detecting pelvic masses is discussed. Ultrasound is highly accurate except in ascites. While barium enema and intravenous pyelogram are both inaccurate. Ultrasound should be the initial examination for the evaluation of patients with a possible pelvic mass.