Gynecology General Gynecology

Hysterosalpingography Wikipedia

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is a radiology|radiologic procedure to examine the uterus and fallopian tubes. It entails the injection of a radio-opaque material into the cervix|cervical canal and usually fluoroscopy with image intensification. A normal result shows the filling of the uterine cavity and the bilateral filling of the fallopian tube with the injection material. To demonstrate tubal patency spillage of the material into the peritoneal cavity needs to be observed.

The procedure involves ionizating x-rays and should be done in the preovulatory phase of the cycle; it is contraindicated in pregnancy. The procedure was introduced in 1910. It is useful to diagnose uterine malformations, Asherman's syndrome, tubal occlusion and used extensively in the work-up of infertility|infertile women. It has been claimed that pregnancy rates are increased in a cycle when an HSG has been performed. Using catheters, an interventional radiologist can open tubes that are proximally occluded.

Complications of the procedure include PID|infection, allergy|allergic reactions to the materials used, intravasation of the material, and ,if oil-based material is used, embolus|embolisation.

Last Modified:   2005-12-19