The contrast agent used in hysterosalpingography is:

• A. Left in the patient at the end of the procedure
• B. Oily iodinated
• C. Noniodinated
• D. Removed from the patient at the end of the procedure

Answer: (A)

In hysterosalpingography the uterus and fallopian tubes are outlined by injecting a radiopaque contrast through the cervix. The imaging relies on the contrast filling and distending the uterine cavity and tubular passages so that a clear map of anatomy and tubal patency can be obtained. Because you need the contrast to remain in the tract during the radiographic filming, it is left in place through the end of the procedure. Only afterward is the contrast removed or allowed to drain. The medium used is iodinated to provide radiopacity, with oil-based variants used less commonly today due to safety concerns.