Hysterography
Hysterography, also known as hysterogram, is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure designed to provide enhanced x-ray images of the interior of the uterus using contrast dye. This procedure is primarily utilized to identify uterine and endometrial cancers, allowing physicians to closely examine the uterine lining for any potential cancerous developments, such as uterine sarcoma or endometrial cancer. The ideal time for a hysterography is following menstruation and before ovulation to avoid interfering with a potential pregnancy.
The procedure typically occurs in an outpatient setting and may involve the administration of pain medication, mild sedatives, or antibiotics. During the procedure, a speculum is inserted into the vagina, and a thin catheter is introduced through the cervix to deliver the contrast dye into the uterus. X-rays are taken as the dye fills the uterine cavity, allowing for comprehensive imaging.
Post-procedure, patients might experience mild menstrual-like cramps or light bleeding, and they are advised against using tampons or engaging in sexual activity for a short recovery period. While there are some risks associated with hysterography, such as allergic reactions to the dye and infection, it remains a valuable tool for early cancer detection. Results from the procedure can indicate the presence of abnormal growths, which may require further evaluation through biopsy for a definitive cancer diagnosis.
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Hysterography
ALSO KNOWN AS: Hysterogram
DEFINITION: Hysterography is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure that uses contrast dye to enhance x-ray images of the interior of the uterus.
Cancers diagnosed:Uterine cancer, endometrial cancer
Why performed: Hysterography is a diagnostic procedure that is used to help identify uterine and endometrial cancer. Hysterography allows a doctor to analyze the interior lining of the uterus to check for possible cancerous growths, such as uterine sarcoma or endometrial cancer.
Patient preparation: The preferred time to receive a hysterography is after the last day of menstruation and prior to ovulation, to prevent interrupting a pregnancy. Routine laboratory tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and pregnancy are conducted before the procedure.
Hysterography is an outpatient procedure performed at a department. Patients may receive pain medication, a mild sedative, or antibiotics prior to the procedure. Patients don an examination gown and wear nothing below the waist. The procedure can usually be completed in about fifteen to forty-five minutes.
Steps of the procedure: Patients lie on their backs on an examination table during the procedure. The patient’s knees are spread and the feet are placed in stirrups. A speculum is inserted into the vagina to separate the vaginal walls. The cervix is cleansed. A thin is inserted through the cervical opening. Contrast dye is delivered to the uterus through the thin tube.
The doctor views the contrast dye as it fills the uterus by watching images on a screen. X-rays are taken during the process. Patients may be repositioned to allow x-rays to be taken from various angles.
When the hysterography is complete, the catheter and speculum are gently removed. Patients are monitored for a short time for allergic reaction or bleeding.
After the procedure: Patients may experience menstrual-like cramps or light bleeding for a few days following the procedure. Patients should not use tampons and douches or participate in sexual intercourse for two days. Patients may receive pain medication or antibiotics. Patients should contact their doctor if they experience heavy bleeding, infection, allergic reaction, breathing problems, or increased pain.
Risks: The risks of hysterography include allergic reaction to the contrast dye, infection, or prolonged bleeding.
Results: A healthy uterus has no abnormal growths or tissues. Suspicious or cancerous-appearing growths are biopsied in a separate procedure to confirm a diagnosis of cancer.
Bibliography
Barbot, J. “Hysteroscopy and Hysterography.” Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America 22.3 (1995): 591-603. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8524540. Accessed 19 June 2024.
Bellenir, Karen. Cancer Sourcebook for Women. 2nd ed. Detroit: Omnigraphics, 2002.
Donnez, Jacques. Atlas of Operative Laparoscopy and Hysteroscopy. 3rd ed. New York: Informa, 2007. Digital file.
Hoffman, Barbara L., et al. Williams Gynecology. 2nd ed. New York: McGraw, 2012.
Oliva, Esther, and Franco M. Muggia. Uterine Cancer: Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Totowa: Humana, 2009. Digital file.
Surwit, Earl A., and David S. Alberts. Endometrial Cancer. Boston: Kluwer, 1989. Digital file.