Validity of real-time three-dimensional hysterosalpingocontrast sonography in evaluating hysterosalpingo patency before intrauterine insemination

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical value of real-time three-dimensional hysterosalpingocontrast sonography (RT-3D-HyCoSy) in evaluating hysterosalpingo patency before intrauterine insemination (IUI). Methods Totally 364 cycles (242 cases) of IUI were retrospectively analyzed in Center for Reproductive Medicine of Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University from January to December 2017. According to the method used for evaluating hysterosalpingo patency before IUI, these patients were divided into RT-3D-HyCoSy group (group A, 105 cases, 161 cycles) and hysterosalpingography (HSG) group (group B, 137 cases, 203 cycles). The basic clinical data, the treatment protocol and the pregnancy rate of IUI were analyzed. Results In 364 cycles of IUI, the ratio of natural cycle vs. ovulation induction cycle was not significantly different between the two groups (P>0.05). There were no differences in endometrial thickness on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection, the follicle size before ovulation and the time gap between tube patency check to the date of IUI. The sperm motility and the total fast progressive sperms between the two groups were also not different (P>0.05). There was no difference in clinical pregnancy rate between group A (18.01%) and group B (16.26%) (P>0.05). Conclusion RT-3D-HyCoSy has many advantages as in real time, quickly and dynamically in tubal patency evaluation. It is also clear, safe, free of radiation and with high accuracy. RT-3D-HyCoSy is a safe and effective way in evaluating the tubal patency before IUI. Key words: Infertility; Tubal patency; Hysterosalpingography; Transvaginal sonography; Real-time three-dimension; Artificial insemination