Patricia M. Carrascosa MD, Presenter: Research support, Koninklijke Philips Electronics NV

Carlos Capunay MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Mariano Baronio, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Javier Vallejos MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Jorge Manuel Carrascosa MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

The introduction of multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) revolutionized medical imaging and has the potential to become a reliable tool for noninvasive diagnosis in whole body. Virtual hysterosalpingography (VHSG) is a new modality that combines hysterosalpingography technique with MDCT technologies. This study allows a high accurate evaluation of the uterine cavity, uterine wall, fallopian tubes, and other intrapelvic structures. A wide variety of visualization tools can be used during VHSG exams allowing a complete assessment of uterine pathology and other gynecologic disorders. Recent advances and improvements in reproductive medicine have generated the needed of precise diagnostic examinations in the infertility workup. First evaluations performed using 16-row CT were promising, with good results for identification of uterine pathologies but with limitations for the fallopian tubes evaluation. The introduction of 64-row CT scanners enable isotropic spatial resolution and give a significant improvement in the visualization and assessment of fallopian tubes, one of the major goals in the evaluation of the infertile patients. VHSG is a less painful, more comfortable and better tolerated procedure for patients as is a quick and simple technique with a plastic cannula and without cervical grasping. The use of a power injector guarantees a constant and low pressure injection. Currently these studies use less than 1 mSV (mean 0.9). Different pathologies can be assessed including uterine abnormalities such as congenital anomalies, synechiae, leiomyomas, polyps, and adenomyosis. Tubal abnormalities can also be detected including salpingitis, tubal occlusion, hydrosalpingx, and peritubal adhesions.

Carrascosa, P, Capunay, C, Baronio, M, Vallejos, J, Carrascosa, J, Virtual MDCT Hysteroscopy.  Radiological Society of North America 2010 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2010 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2010/9016469.html