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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