Assessing whether the fallopian tubes are open (patent) is a crucial initial step in evaluating female fertility.
Two key basic diagnostic tests are commonly used to check tubal patency:
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is a traditional and widely used method.
- It involves injecting a dye into the uterus, followed by X-ray imaging to visualize the dye’s flow through the fallopian tubes.
- If the dye spills freely through the tubes and into the pelvic cavity, the tubes are considered open.
- HSG helps not only to assess patency but also the shape and structure of the uterus and tubes.
- It is a simple outpatient procedure and generally does not require anesthesia.
Saline Infusion Sonohysterogram (SIS)
A saline infusion sonohysterogram (SIS) uses ultrasound with saline solution:
- A thin tube is placed inside the uterus and sterile saline is gently infused.
- Ultrasound imaging then monitors how the saline flows through the tubes.
- This method also helps reveal uterine abnormalities and can be performed safely in an outpatient setting.
Conclusion
Both HSG and SIS are basic, non-surgical tests that efficiently determine if the fallopian tubes are open, serving as essential first steps in infertility evaluation. These methods guide doctors in choosing the most suitable treatment plan and can help avoid unnecessary procedures.