What functional test is used for diagnosing PCS?

The tilt table gonadal venography is a specialized functional test used for diagnosing pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS). This condition is characterized by chronic pelvic pain due to varicose veins in the pelvic region, often resulting from hormonal changes or vein abnormalities.

During the tilt table gonadal venography, the patient's body is positioned at different angles, which helps assess how blood flow and venous filling change with positional alterations. This test allows for the visualization of venous structures and can highlight abnormalities in venous drainage from the ovaries and other pelvic organs. By observing the veins under varying conditions and angles, the test can provide insight into whether venous insufficiency or congestion is contributing to the patient's symptoms.

Other tests such as abdominal ultrasound, CT venography, and pelvic MRI are useful for various diagnostic purposes but may not specifically assess the dynamic changes in venous flow or the functional aspects related to PCS in the same way that tilt table gonadal venography does. Hence, the tilt table approach is particularly relevant for diagnosing PCS, making it the most appropriate choice in this context.