Gadolinium for hysterosalpingography

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of gadolinium as an alternative to iodinated contrast medium for hysterosalpingography in patients with an increased risk for iodinated contrast hypersensitivity. STUDY DESIGN: Between March 2003 and March 2006, 3,616 hysterosalpingography examinations were performed. Hysterosalpingography was routinely performed using water-soluble, nonionic, iodinated contrast medium. Hysterosalpingography was performed with gadolinium in patients at risk for contrast hypersensitivity. We retrospectively reviewed the diagnostic quality, safety and clinical outcome in patients who underwent gadolinium hysterosalpingography. RESULTS: Hysterosalpingograms of diagnostic quality were successfully performed without adverse reactions in 11 patients. The density of gadolinium contrast opacification was diminished as compared with a conventional hysterosalpingogram with iodinated contrast. Two of the 8 patients who were not on oral contraceptives and had patent fallopian tubes became pregnant within 6 months of the hysterosalpingogram procedure. CONCLUSION: Gadolinium hysterosalpingography is of diagnostic value and is a safe alternative to iodinated contrast medium for hysterosalpingography in patients at increased risk for iodinated contrast hypersensitivity.