What is OB Ultrasound?

Obstetric ultrasound uses sound waves to take pictures of the baby. An ultrasound probe is used to measure the baby’s size and take pictures of the anatomy (body parts and internal organs). Because there is no radiation involved, ultrasound can safely be performed in the first, second, or third trimester of pregnancy. 

Common reasons to have an OB ultrasound:

• Confirm the presence of a living embryo or fetus
• Estimating the date of delivery
• Evaluation of the fetal anatomy
• Evaluate the placental location
• Check fetal growth and well being

What is a breast Sonohysterography?

Sonohysterography, also know as hysterosonography or saline infusion sonography, is an ultrasound scan of the uterus. The procedure is a minimally invasive technique that provides real-time images of your internal organs and blood flow to the uterus. This procedure is often used to investigate uterine abnormalities in women who experience multiple miscarriages or are infertile.

Sonohysterography is a valuable technique for evaluating unexplained vaginal bleeding that may include:

• Congenital variants of the uterus
• Adhesions or scarring
• Polyps
• Fibroid tumors

How should I prepare for this procedure?

Sonohysterography is best performed one week after your last menstrual cycle. This cyclic phase is when the endometrium or uterine lining is thinnest and most likely in its normal state. This procedure should not be performed if you are pregnant. There is no special preparation prior to the exam, but some patients may be advised to take an over-the-counter pain reliever shortly before the procedure to minimize any potential procedural discomfort.

What should I expect?

Sonohysterography is performed with the instillation of sterile saline into the uterus through a catheter. The fluid distends the uterus and outlines anatomy and abnormalities. The ultrasound procedure is performed vaginally, much like a gynecological exam. The initial phase of the exam is done prior to the catheter insertion. Once images are taken, the radiologist will insert the catheter into the uterine cavity and the ultrasound transducer is reintroduced. Saline is then injected via the catheter while being viewed by the ultrasound probe. The examination is usually completed in 30 minutes. During the hysterosonogram there may be occasional cramping, often the result of saline introduction. A vaginal sonogram is generally more comfortable than having a gynecological exam. After the examination is completed, you should be able to resume your normal activities.

How can I get the results?

After your study is complete, the images will be evaluated by one of our women’s imaging specialists. A final report will then be sent to your physician who can discuss the results with you in detail.

What is a pelvic MRI?

A pelvic MRI is a magnetic resonance study of the female pelvis and reproductive organs. It is often used to assess women who suffer from chronic pelvic pain but have no diagnosis or who are experiencing dysfunctional uterine bleeding. A pelvic MRI is suggested when an ultrasound does not identify the problem. It may also be a better option since an MRI provides better visualization of the organs for masses in the pelvis.

What should I expect?

You will be asked to lie down on an MRI table. The table will move into the MRI scanner. Once the technologist has positioned you in the scanner, a series of MRI scans will be performed. The technologist will be instructing you during each scan. After the technologist reviews the scans, making sure that they are sufficient for interpretation, they will be sent to the radiologist for their interpretation.

How should I prepare?

Prior to your examination, you will be asked a series of health history questions that are critical before entry to the scanner. Patients who have a pacemaker or other metal medical devices implanted in their body may be prevented from entry. The screening process may take place more than once just to safeguard your procedure.

How can I get the results?

After your study is complete, one of our TRG radiologists will evaluate your study and report the findings to your physician. Once your physician has your results they will compare them with their clinical findings to develop your care plan.

What is hysterosalpingogram?

A hysterosalpingogram is performed with the instillation of a small amount of contrast (“dye”) into the uterus through a catheter. The fluid mildly distends the uterus and outlines anatomy and the lining of the uterine cavity. The uterine cavity communicates with the fallopian tubes, the patency of which is assessed by passage of contrast through the tubes. The HSG procedure is performed vaginally, much like a gynecological exam. The radiologist will insert the catheter into the uterine cavity, instill the contrast, and then obtain radiographic images. The examination is usually completed in 20 minutes. During the examination there may be occasional cramping, often the result of catheter or contrast introduction. After the examination is completed, you should be able to resume your normal activities.