Fallopian Tube Patency Demonstrated at Ultrasonography

Abstract

Fallopian tube patency was assessed in 24 infertile patients by hysterosalpingography (HSG) and ultrasonographic examination of the pouch of Douglas following transcervical injection of a sterile isotonic solution of NaCl. The presence of fluid in the pouch, after the injection, was taken to indicate tubal patency. The results of the HSG and the ultrasonographic diagnosis as to the presence of at least unilateral tubal patency were concordant in 21 patients. Pitfalls consisted of fluid accumulation in periadnexal adhesions, edema in the bowel wall, and spill of the injected saline into a large hydrosalpinx. Ultrasonography is advocated as the initial examination in assessing infertility in young women. If tubal patency is demonstrated, the patient should be recommended a six month trial period, to become pregnant, before invasive procedures are initiated.