Musarrat Hasan MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

The purpose of this study was to try Gaseous Spring water as an alternate contrast agent in Tubal Patency test which would be easily available and to reduce the cost of the procedure.  

The basic technique consists of a routine transvaginal ultrasound examination followed by a direct visualization of the cervix with a speculum. Following cleansing of the cervix using a sterile agent under aseptic technique a soft flexible catheter is inserted into the uterine cavity. This technique is common to all procedures, regardless of the contrast agent chosen. A balloon catheter is preferred as it is less likely to dislodge and creates a better seal at the internal cervical os. Following the insertion of the catheter, the speculum is removed and the transvaginal ultrasound probe reinserted. Under Ultrasound control about 5-10 CC of echo-enhancing agent ie gaseous spring water is inserted very slowly so that Micro Air bubbles are not destroyed. Tubal patency was assessed by direct imaging of micro air bubbles at the Cornual end and by seeing the bubble constantly moving at the Cornual ean of 5 to 10 seconds to made the diagnosis of patent tube.

Out of 360 patients examined by gaseous spring water 288 patients i.e. 80% were found to have bilateral Patent Tubes. 43 patients i.e. 12% had unilateral blocked tubes and 29 patients i.e. 8% had bilateral blocked tubes. Two patients were found to have one tube blocked, when rescanned in the next cycle, the tube was found to be patent.  

The Tubal Patency assessment with gaseous spring water was found to be cost effective, safe, easily available and less time consuming then HSG. It is recommended that spring water should be used to check tubal patency in sub fertile women.

This contrast Agent can be used as an alternative to existing contrast agent.

Hasan, M, Use of Gaseous Spring Water for Tubal Patency Test.  Radiological Society of North America 2008 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, February 18 - February 20, 2008 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2008/6008815.html