Radiology Group | Exam Descriptions | Ultrasound

Imaging Excellence in the Quad Cities Since 1945

Hysterosonography is an ultrasound technique used to view the inside of a woman’s uterus and uterine lining. Hysterosonography is also called saline infusion sonography. Sonography (or ultrasound) is an imaging exam that uses sound waves instead of x-rays or radiation to produce “real-time” live images of the internal organs and tissues of the body. During an ultrasound exam, sound waves bounce off organs and tissues like an echo to create pictures or images. These images can be viewed in “real time” on an attached computer monitor by your Technologist. “Snapshots” of the images are captured for the Radiologist to review and interpret.

A hysterosonogram enables your Radiologist to visualize many uterine abnormalities that can prevent unnecessary surgery. It is often used to investigate unexplained infertility or multiple miscarriages, evaluate unexplained vaginal bleeding, and identify masses, scarring, polyps, or fibroids.

You will lie on an exam table next to the ultrasound scanner. Your Technologist will begin by performing a baseline transvaginal ultrasound exam to view the lining of the uterus, determine its thickness, and reveal any associated ovarian abnormalities. The baseline transvaginal ultrasound is performed using a transducer (a hand-held device that sends and receives ultrasound signals) that will be inserted into the vagina. The transducer transfers images of the uterus to the ultrasound machine in “real time” onto a computer monitor. “Snapshots” of the images are captured for the Radiologist to review and interpret.

After this portion of the exam, your Technologist removes the transducer and the Radiologist inserts a speculum. Next, the Radiologist inserts a catheter (a flexible, hollow plastic tube) into the cervical canal; the speculum is removed and the transvaginal transducer reinserted into the vaginal canal. Sterile saline is then injected into the uterine cavity while ultrasound images are obtained. This allows your Technologist to capture images of the shape and size of the uterine cavity. If any part of the uterus appears irregular it will be apparent on the images.

Hysterosonography should not cause any significant pain or discomfort. You may feel occasional cramping as the saline is introduced into the uterine cavity, however, over-the-counter pain relievers should minimize any discomfort associated with the procedure.

Hysterosonography is usually scheduled one week after menstruation when the uterine lining is thinnest and best determined to be “normal.” The timing of the exam may vary depending on your symptoms and their suspected cause. Hysterosonography is not performed during pregnancy.

Prior to the exam you may be advised to take an over-the-counter medication to minimize any potential discomfort during the procedure.

The length of time required for a hysterosonogram is dependent upon the individual. When the exam is completed you may be asked to wait until the Radiologist determines if more images are required.

A Radiologist (a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing disease and injury using medical imaging technology) analyzes and interprets your exam within 24 hours. He/she dictates a Report of the findings and sends it to your physician. Your physician's office will inform you of your results. Due to the number of patients your physician serves, it may be 7 to 10 days before he/she is prepared to respond to your Report.

It is not possible for our office to determine individual coverage. Coverage for imaging tests is variable and depends on your insurance carrier, your plan, any exclusions, and sometimes the reasons for the examination. Prior to undergoing any imaging test, please call the number on the back of your insurance card to determine if it will be covered.

Who do I call if I have questions?
Contact us at (563) 359-3931.
Links: www.radiologyinfo.com

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