Comparison of Hystero-salpingography and Hysterosalpingo-Contrast Sonography for tubal patency testing: technical success, pain perception, side effects and complications

Aims: The aim of this study was to compare technical success and tolerability between hysterosalpingography (HSG) and hysterosalpingo-contrast ultrasonogmphy (HyCoUs) as a first-line evaluation method in a single fertility center. Material and methods: The study included 56 infertile women: 27 patients underwent HSG and 29 patients underwent HyCoUs. Pain perception was measured by means of an 11-point visual analog scale (VAS) and the Stacy score. Side-effects, technical aspects, complications and variable correlations were documented. Results: The median VAS scale was 5 (4;6) for HSG and 1 (1;2) for HyCoUs. The median Stacy score was 2 (1;3) for HSG and 1 (0;1) for HyCoUs. The difference in pain perception was statistically significant for both pain scores (p<0.001). All patients undergoing HyCoUs reported a visual analog (VAS) pain score of <5 and 59.3% of patients undergoing an HSG reported a score of >5. Increased pain scores showed a statistically significant association with duration and total volume of substance infused. The type of procedure and volume infused were independently associated with the VAS scale. In the HSG group, 14.8% (4) of patients reported a vagal effect (p<0.001), one patient requiring hospitalization. No vagal effects were reported following HyCoUs and the method was technically successful in 100% (29) of cases. HSG was successful in 88.9% (24) of cases. Conclusions: HyCoUs is a well-tolerated procedure with reduced frequency of adverse effects. Low pain perception is strongly correlated with a low volume infused. It is non-invasive and efficient in rendering good quality images.

Automated summary

This study compared the technical success and tolerability between HSG and HyCoUs as a first-line evaluation method in infertile women. The results showed that HyCoUs had lower pain perception and frequency of adverse effects, as well as a higher technical success rate compared to HSG.