Comparison between hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography ( HyCoSy ) using echovist® and hysterosalpingography ( HSG ) in uterine cavity and tubal patency assessment.

ABSTRACT

assessment of uterine cavity and tubal patency compare with hysterosalpingography ( HSG ). Thirty four of infertile women undergoing investigation for infertility were enrolled from July 1997 until November 1998 for the current study. HyCoSy using Echovistฎ and HSG were successful carried out during the first half of each patient’s menstrual cycle. The flow of contrast medium through the uterine cavity and each fallopian tube was visualised in real time by transvaginal ultrasonography for HyCoSy. Meanwhile, HSG was performed and reported by consultant radiologists. Regarding the uterine cavity evaluation, 32 of 34 cases ( 94.1 % ) was reported to be normal by both procedures. Only 2 cases were noted with different results. From the 68 fallopian tubes studied, though 47 of 68 tubes were showed patent by the two procedures, HyCoSy could detect occlusion in only 5 of 10 left fallopian tubes and in 5 of 9 right fallopian tubes which were reported to be occluded by HSG. Mean length of time for HyCoSy was 8.7 minutes (range 2-30 minutes, Std. Dev. 5.4) and mild pelvic pain was the only complication incurred. In conclusion, HyCoSy using Echovistฎ is a reliable and safe procedure for outpatient uterine cavity evaluation. However, it does not substitute to HSG for tubal patency assessment in basic infertility investigation.