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Hysterosalpingography Test - Hysterosalpingography Testing, Procedure, Preparation


Hysterosalpingography Testing


A hysterosalpingography is essentially a test that uses x-rays to examine the uterus and fallopian tubes of a woman. This requires the use of a special x-ray machine called a fluoroscopy. It also requires the introduction of a special contrast dye to be inserted into the body in order to show the targeted body parts more clearly in the resulting x-ray image. This contrast dye, usually iodine, is inserted into the body through the cervix and the image is captured using a small measure of ionizing radiation to create the pictures of the internal body parts. Since all x-ray procedures are non invasive, they are regularly used and preferred in a number of diagnosis. The unique feature of the fluoroscopy is the fact that they allow the physician to see the organs internally performing their functions and therefore is of help to evaluate their anatomy as well as functionality. The hysterosalpingography procedure is widely used all over the world in order to investigate the root cause of repeated miscarriages that could possibly be the result of congenital abnormalities of the uterus. It also helps to identify the presence of certain conditions such as uterine fibroids, adhesions and tumor masses. They are also very effective in analyzing the width of the fallopian tubes or investigate blockage of the fallopian tubes, tubal ligation, and closure of the tubes during a sterilization procedure or reversal.

Hysterosalpingography Test Procedure


During hysterosalpingography, the x-ray emitting gun is aimed at the targeted part of the body and a small burst of radiation is passed through the body, creating an image on a film or digital image recording plate. The contrast material that has been introduced into the body will allow the targeted organs to show up more prominently on the image and make a detailed study of the condition. The entire hysterosalpingography procedure will cause only a small amount of discomfort and the patient will be asked to lie down on her back on the examination table with legs held up by stirrups. A catheter will then introduce the contrast dye into the cervix and, when the procedure is complete, the catheter will be removed and the patient be allowed to sit upright.

Hysterosalpingography Test Preparation


The hysterosalpingography procedure should be performed about a week prior to menstruation but before ovulation in order to ensure that the patient is not pregnant during the examination. It is important that you inform your physician of any reactions to medication or chemicals, especially iodine. The night before the procedure, you may be asked to take a laxative or enema in order to empty and cleanse the bowels so the uterus may be seen more clearly in the images.

 
  Submitted on March 3, 2010  
 
 
 
 
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