Nuclear Oncology

Hysterosalpingography, also called uterosalpingography is an x-ray of the fallopian tubes and uterus of a woman who uses a special x-ray called fluoroscopy and contrast medium.

An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. The imaging X-rays involves exposing a body part to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce images inside the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used for medical imaging.

Fluoroscopy is a special x-ray technique that allows to see internal organs in motion. During a hysterosalpingogram, uterus and fallopian tubes are filled with a dye soluble in water, and the radiologist may use fluoroscopy to see and evaluate the anatomy and functions of those organs.

Some common uses of the procedure

Hysterosalpingography is primarily used to screen women who have difficulty becoming pregnant by allowing the radiologist to evaluate the shape and structure of the uterus, the opening of the fallopian tubes and any scarring within the uterine cavity peritoneal (abdominal).

The procedure can be used to investigate repeated spontaneous abortions that result from congenital or acquired abnormalities of the uterus and the presence and severity of these abnormalities, including:

* Tumor masses within the uterine wall, such as polyps and fibroids
Adhesions *

Hysterosalpingography is also used to evaluate the opening of the fallopian tubes and control the effects of tubal surgery, including:

* Blocked fallopian tubes due to infection or fibrosis
* Tubal ligation
* Closing of the fallopian tubes in a sterilization procedure and cancellation of the
* Re-opening of the fallopian tubes following an obstruction related to an illness or sterilization

How should I prepare?

The HSG procedure is best done a week after menstruation but before ovulation to ensure that you are not pregnant during the exam.

This procedure should not be performed if you have an active inflammatory disease. You should notify your physician or technologist if you have a chronic pelvic infection or a sexually transmitted disease untreated at the time of the procedure.

On the night before the procedure, you may be asked to take a laxative or enema to empty your bowels, so that the uterus and surrounding structures can be clearly seen.

Before the procedure, may be given a mild sedative or prescription pain medication to minimize any potential discomfort. Some physicians prescribe an antibiotic before or after the procedure.

You should tell your doctor about any medications you are taking and if you have allergies, especially to barium contrast media or ionized. Also tell your doctor about recent illnesses or other medical condition.

You may be asked to remove all or part of their clothes and to wear a gown during the exam. You may also be asked to remove jewelry, dentures, eyeglasses and any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the x-ray images

Women should always inform your doctor and x-ray technologist if there is a possibility of pregnancy. Many imaging tests are not performed during pregnancy because radiation can be dangerous to the fetus. If it is necessary to examine X-rays, taking precautions to minimize exposure of the baby to radiation. See the Safety page (www.RadiologyInfo.org/sp/safety/) for more information about pregnancy and x-rays