Sonohysterography - A Review

Introduction:

Sonohysterography is an imaging procedure used to look at the inside of the uterus. It helps to know about the issues related to the uterus. It is also known as saline infusion sonography (SIS). This procedure is used to detect abnormalities such as fibroids, irregular bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility. It is considered a safe test that uses sound waves and a computer.

What is Sonohysterography?

Sonohysterography is an imaging technique used to diagnose problems related to the uterus. It is also known as hysterosonography; another name for this technique is SIS. This procedure infuses saline through a thin tube (catheter) into the uterine cavity. Then the ultrasound is used to create images. The infused saline expands the uterine wall. This makes it easy to identify any abnormalities in the endometrium (the uterus lining). The uterus (womb) is the organ where the baby develops during pregnancy. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus, opening into it and sitting on top of the vagina.

This procedure is recommended for women with problems related to the uterus.

Advantages of this procedure compared to the pelvic ultrasound technique include:

1. Minimally invasive.

2. Relatively painless.

3. More accurate.

Why is Sonohysterography Done?

Sonohysterography is a diagnostic tool used by healthcare professionals to diagnose the following medical conditions:

1. Fibroids in the uterus.

2. Polyps in the uterus.

3. Scarring in the uterus.

4. Abnormal shape of the uterus.

5. Cancer of the uterus.

This test is advised when you have the following symptoms.

These include:

1. Abnormal bleeding in the uterus (if the bleeding or spotting occurs between your periods).

2. Infertility.

3. Recurrent miscarriages.

4. In the case of an abnormal pelvic examination.

5. Bleeding or spotting after menopause.

6. Menstrual flow that is longer and heavier than normal.

It is also done when the standard ultrasound test fails to identify a problem with the uterus. It provides a clear picture of soft tissues.

What Happens During Sonohysterography?

Sonohysterography is performed in a physician’s office or a hospital. A technician or a radiologist performs the procedure, which may take 30 minutes to complete. Saline infusion sonography (SIS) has very few risks. Some women may face discomfort during the procedure. Some may experience cramps during and after the procedure. There is a small risk of pelvic infection, but it is very rarely observed and is taken care of by your healthcare provider.

The following individuals should avoid the SIS test.

These include:

Pregnant Women: This test is not advised. If done, it may be dangerous to the developing baby.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Women with PID may face difficulties during SIS. Hence, the test is postponed till the problem is resolved.

Timing of the Menstrual Cycle: The best time to do the SIS is immediately after the period and within the 10 days after the first day of your period. This is to avoid infection and loss of early pregnancy, if any.

Abnormal Bleeding: If a woman has intermittent or abnormal bleeding, progestin may be given to make way for the surgery.

Latex Allergy: Any allergy, especially latex allergy, if present, should be disclosed to the doctor beforehand.

Cervical Stenosis: Women with cervical conditions may not undergo SIS. In this case, it becomes difficult to introduce a catheter into the cervical canal.

Preparation for SIS:

During the preparation, the following things are advised:

• The doctor may ask you to take pain medicines before, only to avoid discomfort that may be caused.

• An antibiotic course may also be advised to prevent any infections.

• You may be advised to wear a pad to absorb any discharge during the procedure.

• You will be asked to empty your bladder just before the procedure.

During the procedure, the following steps are followed:

• You may be examined for pelvic infection by doing a pelvic examination.

• You will be asked to lie on the examination table with your knees bent and legs open.

• A clinician uses a transducer wand covered with a thin sheath and gel. This wand is inserted into the vagina.

• He moves the wand slightly to take images of the uterus.

• Then he removes the wand from the uterus.

• A speculum is used to keep the vagina open. This device helps reach your cervix.

• The clinician wipes the cervix with a swab to clean it.

• A thin catheter is inserted through the cervix into the uterus.

• After inserting a catheter, the speculum will be removed.

• After removal of the speculum, the wand is again inserted into the vagina.

• The saline is sent to the uterus through the catheter.

• When sufficient saline is filled in the uterus, images are taken of the inside of the uterus.

• Once the images are taken, the clinician removes the catheter and the wand.

• The saline may drain out in the next few hours.

Pain may be common in sonohysterography. It may be observed during the catheter insertion, and pressure may be felt during the filling of the uterus with saline. The pain felt may be different for individuals. Some may feel mild pain, and others may feel moderate pain.

What to Expect After the Procedure?

After the procedure, you may be asked to go home. Some women may have problems otherwise, but most can continue with their daily activities.

These symptoms can be noticed immediately after the procedure:

• Cramping (a sudden, painful, and involuntary contraction of the muscles)

• A light spotting may be observed.

• Leakage of fluid from the vagina.

These are considered normal. If necessary, over-the-counter medications can be taken for pain, but most women do not need this medication. If you notice any pain, fever, or change in vaginal discharge, do inform your healthcare provider since these may be signs of infection. After the procedure, the radiologist may discuss the reports with your physician. They conclude that a health condition is present.

What are the Benefits of Sonohysterography?

The benefits of SIS include:

• This procedure gives a detailed and clear view of the uterus.

• This procedure is found to be accurate when compared to normal ultrasounds.

• It helps in fertility treatments.

• This procedure is minimally invasive and has a quick recovery time.

This procedure’s limitations include:

• SIS cannot identify abnormalities in the fallopian tubes or ovaries.

• Other imaging techniques may be used to detect the abnormalities.

Understanding Sonohysterography Results: What Do They Mean?

The procedure may confirm the issues related to the uterus. Based on the results, the healthcare provider may help in

• Diagnosis of the condition.

• Prepare for surgeries if required to remove the abnormal structures present.

• They help provide treatment through prescribing medicines.

• They may monitor the extra growths present.

• If this procedure does not confirm the diagnosis, they ask you to undergo different tests.

What Are the Complications of Sonohysterography?

Sonohysterography is a safe procedure, but it also exhibits certain complications.

These include:

• Failure to complete the procedure. This may be due to the patient.

• The patient may not tolerate the pain caused by distention of the uterus. The infusion of saline causes the distension.

• Nausea or fainting attacks may be observed among a few patients.

This procedure is considered superior to other tests because of its accuracy and sensitivity in its results.

Conclusion:

Sonohysterography is a procedure that can make a person nervous. This is because the procedure is done in a personal, sensitive area. In actuality, the procedure is safe and minimally invasive with very minimal side effects. This procedure helps diagnose issues related to the uterus. You can talk to your healthcare provider about the procedure beforehand. They can ease your problems. This enables you to easily undergo the procedure by explaining everything about it.

Key Takeaway or Note from Icliniq

Sonohysterography is a diagnostic procedure used to identify problems related to the uterus. These include irregular bleeding, fibroids, and more. It is safe and has minimal side effects. To know more, contact iCliniq.com.