A saline infusion sonography procedure is similar to a gynecologic exam.
Ultrasound imaging is a medical diagnostic procedure that uses high frequency sound waves to produce pictures of internal body structures. Saline infusion sonography, also called sonohysterography, is a minimally invasive ultrasound procedure that produces pictures of the inside of a woman's uterus.
Uses
Saline infusion sonography, or SIS, can help physicians determine the cause of unexplained vaginal bleeding caused by conditions such as polyps, fibroids, abnormalities of the uterine lining and cancerous lesions or masses.
Equipment
SIS uses a thin wand, called a transducer, to send out sound waves and record the echoes, or sound waves that bounce off of the uterus and ovaries. The wand is inserted 2 to 3 inches into the vagina and moved around to produce detailed pictures of the reproductive organs. Since the ultrasound is performed through the vagina, it is called a transvaginal ultrasound.
Procedure
The SIS procedure is similar to a gynecologic exam and begins with a transvaginal ultrasound. The transducer is removed, the uterus is injected with a sterile salt solution, or saline, and another transvaginal ultrasound is performed. The saline expands the uterus and allows physicians to see anything that may be protruding into the otherwise collapsed organ. The saline mimics the amniotic fluid present during pregnancy that allows evaluation of an unborn fetus.
Tags: infusion sonography, sound waves, transvaginal ultrasound, gynecologic exam, procedure similar, procedure similar gynecologic
