Hysterosalpingography

Alternative names

Uterosalpingography

Definition

Diagnostic test used in the field of Gynecology that consists of the visualization and study of the uterus and fallopian tubes through the use of a fluoroscopy or a continuous source of ionizing radiation (X-rays) and a contrast medium. Fluoroscopy makes it possible to obtain moving radiological images of the uterus and both tubes and the contrast allows their correct visualization.

How is the study done?

Hysterosalpingography is performed in the Radiology Unit of the medical center or hospital on an outpatient basis. The patient must undress the anatomical area under study and a gown will be provided to cover herself; at the same time you should remove your personal items, especially jewelry and metal objects that can interfere with radiological images. A plain pelvic radiograph is performed prior to contrast administration to identify possible abnormalities.

Subsequently, the patient is asked to lie on a table in a gynecological position during the study and an iodinated contrast is administered inside the uterus with the help of a catheter introduced through the vagina. Subsequently, the fluoroscopy is moved on the stretcher and a first series of radiographs is taken, after which the patient must lie down for a few minutes while the contrast is distributed, after which a new series of radiological images will be taken. . A last image may be requested about 30 minutes after the study begins to verify the correct elimination of the contrast. The images obtained will be sent to a computer for processing and further study. The exam usually lasts 30 minutes.

Preparation for the study

Hysterosalpingography does not require prior preparation on the part of the patient, except for the emptying of the bladder of urine before the study. The use of a laxative or an enema may be recommended a few hours before the study is carried out for a better result of the radiological images. The study should be done just after menstruation and before ovulation.

What does it feel like during and after the study?

The study can be uncomfortable for some patients, so a mild sedative or a local anesthetic can be administered prior to the start of the study. Uterine contractions and mild abdominal discomfort may appear during or after completion of the study that can be treated with analgesics. The patient can remove contrast through the vagina in the hours following the study. Mild vaginal bleeding may appear in the hours following the study.

The patient should consult with her doctor in the case of high fever, abdominal or pelvic pain, significant vaginal bleeding or foul-smelling discharge in the hours or days after the study is carried out.

Study risks

During the study, the following may occur:

• allergy to iodinated contrast
• allergy to drugs used during the study
• Infection of the vagina, uterus or tubes.
• Perforation of the vaginal wall, uterus or tubes when inserting the catheter (rare)

Study contraindications

The patient should consult with her doctor before conducting the study in the case of:

• Menstruation or vaginal bleeding
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• allergy to iodinated contrast
• Active vaginal or uterine infection

Reasons why the study is carried out

Hysterosalpingography is a widely known and widely used test in the field of Gynecology. It is used as a diagnostic and treatment test.

As a diagnostic test, it allows detecting the presence of alterations inside the uterus or fallopian tubes that prevent or hinder pregnancy. It also allows to know the state of the fallopian tubes after a tubal ligation in women who do not want pregnancy.

As a treatment test, it allows to detect and treat obstructions of the lumen of the fallopian tubes that prevent the arrival of the ovum from the ovary to the uterus in women who do not achieve pregnancy.