What diagnostic test is commonly used to assess the patency of the fallopian tubes?

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is a specialized radiologic procedure used to evaluate the patency of the fallopian tubes. During this test, a contrast dye is injected through the cervix into the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes. X-rays are then taken to visualize the flow of the dye, which helps identify whether the tubes are open (patent) or blocked. HSG is particularly useful in fertility evaluations, as tubal obstruction can be a common cause of infertility.

While ultrasound and MRI are valuable imaging modalities for assessing various gynecological conditions, they are not specifically designed to assess the patency of the fallopian tubes. Ultrasound can help visualize the uterus and ovaries but does not provide information about tubal patency unless combined with a saline infusion or sonohysterogram. MRI also provides excellent soft tissue detail but is not typically used for this purpose due to its complexity and cost.

Laparoscopy, on the other hand, is an invasive surgical procedure that allows direct visualization of the pelvic organs, including the fallopian tubes. While it can confirm tubal patency through methods such as chromopertubation (injection of dye through the cervix), it is more invasive compared to HSG