A second hysterosalpingography reduces the use of selective technique for treatment of a proximal tubal obstruction.
OBJECTIVE
To assess whether a second hysterosalpingography (HSG) can permit tubal patency, reducing the use of selective salpingography in patients with proximal tubal obstruction.


METHODS
Prospective study.


METHODS
University hospital.


METHODS
The study population consisted of 360 infertile women.


METHODS
In patients with unilateral or bilateral proximal tubal obstruction, a second HSG was performed after about 1 month. In those cases with persistent obstruction, an immediate selective salpingography and tubal catheterization were performed.


METHODS
Tubal opacification.


RESULTS
Forty patients underwent a second HSG procedure for proximal tubal occlusion. Among these, 24 achieved bilateral tubal patency. Thus, repetition of a conventional HSG after 1 month avoided unnecessary salpingography in 60% of patients.


CONCLUSIONS
In infertile women with proximal tubal obstruction, we believe it is best to perform a second HSG. HSG is easy to carry out and subjects patients to a lower dosage of radiation and fewer risks than selective salpingography. The latter technique should be reserved for unsuccessful cases.
Dessole
S
S
Sassari University, Sassari, Italy. dessole@ssmain.uniss.it
Meloni
G B
GB
Capobianco
G
G
Manzoni
M A
MA
Ambrosini
G
G
Canalis
G C
GC
D000328:Adult; D005184:Fallopian Tube Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007047:Hysterosalpingography; D007247:Infertility, Female / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy; D011446:Prospective Studies