The ability of ultrasound to detect patency of at least one fallopian tube by demonstrating free fluid in the cul-de-sac was evaluated in 35 infertile women. The results were compared with conventional hysterosalpingograms, which had been obtained simultaneously. Ultrasound demonstrated bilateral occlusion with a sensitivity of 100%, and showed tubal patency with a specificity of 96%. The ability to diagnose tubal occlusion or patency using this ultrasound technique, which the authors have designated "sonosalpingography," eliminates unnecessary exposure of the female pelvis to ionizing radiation and avoids the use of iodinated contrast material.

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