Is hysterosalpingography an important tool in modern gynecological practice?

OBJECTIVE

To assess the value of hysterosalpingography (HSG) in diagnosing tubal patency and peritubal adhesions.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

HSG was followed whenever possible by diagnostic laparoscopy with chromopertubation to give the final prognosis in cases of infertility.

RESULTS

Normal HSG findings were obtained in 669 women, and abnormal ones in 306. No significant correlation was found between age of patient, duration, type of infertility, and HSG findings. Tubal blockage was seen in 89.2% and uterine factor in 9.4% of cases. Peritubal adhesions were suggestive in 12.75% of cases. On laparoscopy, done in about half of these women, findings were in agreement with HSG in 59.87% of cases. Follow-up was carried out whether the woman conceived, had a laparotomy, or required further investigations.

CONCLUSION

Although somewhat insensitive, the high specificity of hysterosalpingography makes it very helpful for ruling out tubal disease, even where endoscopic evaluation is available.