Current methods of tubal patency assessment.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the scientific literature on current methods of uterine cavity and tubal patency assessment.

DESIGN: Review of literature and appraisal of relevant articles using MEDLINE, OVID, EMBASE, and Cochrane on-line databases.

RESULT(S): Current pelvic imaging subfertility investigations are compared with the gold standard laparoscopy. The technical aspects, associated risks, potential advantages, and weighted utility of each screening study are discussed. A comprehensive analysis of the clinical evidence regarding the safety, tolerance, and accuracy of hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography compared with alternative screening studies and/or laparoscopy is reviewed.

CONCLUSION(S): Increasing evidence supports the more recently described hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography procedure as an acceptable screening study for the subfertile patient with the potential advantage that it is a comprehensive evaluation, methodologically simple, cost effective, and time efficient.