Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospitaland Research Centre

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Patient Guide Series

device. Your radiologist fills the uterine cavity with

contrast material using the catheter and then,

fluoroscopic images are taken.

In cases where certain abnormalities are noticed,

you may be asked to rest and wait up to 30 minutes

so that a delayed image can be taken, which may

be able to provide more clues about your condition.

Once this is completed, your catheter will be

removed and your technologist will ask you to sit

up and wait until they have determined that your

images are readable

The entire process is usually completed within 30

minutes.

What will I experience during and after theprocedure?

You will some discomfort during the exam when the

catheter is placed and the contrast material is

injected but it does not last long. You may

experience some slight pain in the lower abdomen

but this may be minimal and will not last long either.

Who interprets my results and how do I getthem?

A radiologist will analyse your results and send a

signed report to your primary care or referring

physician, who will share the results with you.

Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre7A Block R-3, Johar Town, Lahore, Pakistan

Tel: +92 42 3590 5000 Ext 4133 - 4134 | Fax: +92 42 3594 5150 www.shaukatkhanum.org.pk

HYSTEROSALPINGOGRAPHYGETTING A

What is a hysterosalpingography?

A hysterosalpingography is an x-ray exam of the

uterus and fallopian tubes using fluoroscopy, which

allows your radiologist to see internal organs in

motion, and water-soluble contrast material, a dye

that enhances the anatomy and function of internal

organs.

X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used

form of medical imaging. It is a painless medical

test that helps physicians diagnose and treat

medical conditions and involves exposing a part

of the body to a small and safe dose of radiation to

produce pictures of the inside of the body.

Why do I need to have this procedure?

Your physician has probably asked to you to have

a hysterosalpingogram to determine why you may

be having difficulty becoming pregnant, investigate

multiple miscarriages, determine any abnormalities

such as a tumour or uterine fibroids, or to monitor

the effects of surgery in the fallopian tubes.

How can I prepare for the procedure?

A hysterosalpingogram is best performed a week

after menstruation but before ovulation to make

sure you are not pregnant during the exam.

You will be asked to take a laxative or enema to

empty your bowels on the night before your

procedure so that the uterus and its surrounding

structures can be seen clearly.

You may be asked to remove your clothing and

wear a gown during the procedure. Remove all

metal objects such as jewellery, eyeglasses, den-

tures and hairpins. These objects can affect x-ray

images and should be removed prior to your exam.

Is there any information I should relay tomy physician before the scan?

You should not have this procedure if you have an

active inflammatory condition. Be sure to inform

your physician of any recent illnesses or other

medical conditions, especially if you have a chronic

pelvic infection or sexually-transmitted disease.

You should also notify your doctor of any allergies,

especially to contrast material or anaesthesia, and

about any medications you may be taking.

Women should always let their physician if there is

a possibility that they are pregnant because the

x-rays can harm your baby. If an x-ray is absolutely

necessary, precautions will be taken to minimise

radiation exposure to the baby.

How is the procedure performed?

Before the procedure, you may be given a mild

sedative to minimise the discomfort during the

hysterosalpingogram.

You will be positioned on the exam table with your

knees pulled towards your chest. A speculum, a

tool for investigating abdominal cavities, will be

inserted into the vagina and a thin, plastic tube

called a catheter will be inserted into the cervix.

Once this is done, the speculum is removed and

you are carefully situated under the fluoroscopy