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Michael Frey, MD

Sonohysterogram

Sonohysterography or saline sonohysterogram (SIS) is a specialized pelvic sonogram. There is no radiation during this procedure.


Technique: fluid is injected through the cervix into the uterus to inflate the uterine cavity like filling a balloon with air. The fluid shows more detail of the inside of the uterus than when ultrasound is used alone.


It usually takes about 15 minutes.

Reasons to have Sonohysterography:

  • To look for growths inside the uterus, such as fibroids or polyps

  • To look for scarring inside the uterus from prior uterine surgery or infection

  • To check for abnormal uterine shape

  • To evaluate patients with recurrent miscarriage

  • To evaluate patients with Infertility

uterus with fibroids


Timing

The procedure will be scheduled when you are not having your period. If you are bleeding, the results may not be as clear. The test may be postponed until the bleeding stops. The procedure is not done if you are or could be pregnant, or if you have a pelvic infection or pelvic inflammatory disease. You may be given a urine test to rule out pregnancy.


Sonohysterography is done when your bladder is empty. You will be asked to undress from the waist down and lie on an exam table.

During the Procedure

Sonohysterography has two parts. A transvaginal ultrasound exam is done first. Next, a fluid is injected through the cervix into the uterus, and an ultrasound exam is done again.

  • In a transvaginal ultrasound exam, an ultrasound transducer—a slender, handheld device—is placed in the vagina. It sends out sound waves that are used to make images of the internal organs. These images are shown on a screen.

  • After the first transvaginal ultrasound exam, the transducer is removed. A speculum is placed in the vagina. It holds the vagina open. The health care provider passes a swab through the speculum to clean the cervix.

  • Next, a thin tube called a catheter is inserted through the vagina. It is placed in the opening of the cervix or in the uterine cavity. The speculum then is removed.

catheter inserted into the uterus

  • Sterile fluid is slowly passed through the catheter. Cramping may occur as the fluid goes into the uterus.



  • When the cavity is filled with fluid, ultrasound images are made of the inside of the uterus and the uterine lining.


After the Procedure

Most women are able to go home right away and return to their normal level of activity that day. Some of the following symptoms may occur after the procedure:

  • Cramping

  • Spotting

  • Watery discharge


Risks

This procedure is very safe, but there is a rare risk of pelvic infection.




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