Obstetrics & Gynecology in Minnesota

Tests to Evaluate the Uterus

Sonohysterography

Sonohysterography is a valuable, safe, easy and cost-effective new technique for examining the inside lining of the uterus. Sonohysterography can be used to evaluate abnormal bleeding, infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss. It also can define abnormalities such as possible polyps and fibroids that are detected on X-ray hysterosalpingography and pelvic ultrasound.

Sonohysterography can distinguish between polyps and fibroids and clearly identifies their location and size. In the case of a normal sonohysterogram one might avoid unnecessary surgery. When an abnormality is found, it allows for proper surgical planning and perhaps avoidance of a purely diagnostic surgical procedure.

Ultrasound

A probe is inserted into the vagina and sound waves are passed through the surrounding organ systems. These sound waves penetrate tissues of different density to different degrees, thus creating an impression similar to an X-ray. Unlike X-ray studies, ultrasound has no negative side effects. Vaginal probe ultrasonography is commonly used to monitor follicular develop and visually confirm that the egg has been released from the follicle. Ultrasonography is also used to monitor the developing fetus and diagnose many other conditions.

Hysterosalpingogram

A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an X-ray examination used to outline the inside of the uterus and the Fallopian tubes. The HSG is recommended for various reasons, but is usually done to verify that the Fallopian tubes are open. The HSG is performed on days five to 12 of the menstrual cycle. A radiologist will take X-ray pictures of the abdomen as dye is slowly injected through a catheter. You may watch on a television monitor as dye fills the uterus and Fallopian tubes.

Several X-rays are taken during the procedure but radiation exposure is minimal. Cramping may be felt as the catheter is introduced and as the dye is injected. You may wish to have someone drive you home after the test. If you are scheduled for the HSG, you will receive complete instructions.

Hysteroscopy

A hysteroscope is an instrument used to visualize the inside of the uterus. In hysteroscopy, a fiber optic tube is inserted through the cervix while the uterus is expanded using a gas or fluid. This is an outpatient test. Many surgical procedures are performed through the hysteroscope, such as removal of polyps, fibroids or resection of uterine septi.