The Procedure
Sonohysterography is an ultrasound-monitored procedure similar to a hysterosalpingogram (“HSG”), and is used to detect abnormalities of the uterus. The indications for its use overlap with those of an HSG. Under these circumstances, it no doubt offers an alternative to the conventional HSG.
Sonohysterography is performed as an office procedure. It usually involves:
- The placement of a speculum into the vagina through which a catheter is positioned in the uterus
- A saline solution is injected into the uterine cavity
- At the same time, a transvaginal ultrasound is being performed
Sonohysterography can be used to evaluate the endometrium. For endometrial evaluation, Sonohysterography plays a role in a fertility work-up.
The injection of saline into the endometrial canal (uterine cavity) acts to separate the two sides of the endometrium and improve the visualization of masses, such as polyps. In addition, the saline acts as a contract material which can make abnormal intraluminal structures, such as synechiae (adhesions), visible.