S. Dessole et al., A second hysterosalpingography reduces the use of selective technique for treatment of a proximal tubal obstruction, FERT STERIL, 73(5), 2000, pp. 1037-1039
Objective: To assess whether a second hysterosalpingography (HSG) can permi
t tubal patency, reducing the use of selective salpingography in patients w
ith proximal tubal obstruction.
Design: Prospective study.
Setting: University hospital.
Patient(s): The study population consisted of 360 infertile women.
Intervention(s): In patients with unilateral or bilateral proximal tubal ob
struction, a second HSG was performed after about 1 month. In those cases w
ith persistent obstruction, an immediate selective salpingography and tubal
catheterization were performed.
Main Outcome Measure(s): Tubal opacification.
Result(s): Forty patients underwent a second HSG procedure for proximal tub
al occlusion. Among these, 24 achieved bilateral tubal patency. Thus, repet
ition of a conventional HSG after 1 month avoided unnecessary salpingograph
y in 60% of patients.
Conclusion(s): In infertile women with proximal tubal obstruction, we belie
ve it is best to perform a second HSG. HSG is easy to carry out and subject
s patients to a lower dosage of radiation and fewer risks than selective sa
lpingography. The latter technique should be reserved for unsuccessful case
s. (Fertil Steril(R) 2000; 73:1037-9. (C) 2000 by American Society for Repr
oductive Medicine).