For the visualization of the uterine cavity hysterography (HG) is an established procedure. Hysterosonography (HS) is a new imaging modality. In an in vitro study the features of HS have been compared to those of HG. The results of both methods were verified by macroscopic and microscopic specimen. HS is su-I maging systems for visualizing the uterus have gained more and more importance. Percutaneous ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging are already established procedures.1·3 In the visualization of the uterine cavity, its size, form, and pathologic changes are important in the diagnosis and therapy of infertility and uterine tumors. Hysterography (HG) has been the diagnostic procedure of choice.4 Over the last few years, hysterosonography (HS) has broadened the diagnostic spectrum. HG allows the visualization of the uterine cavity and provides additional information concerning cavity-related processes. HS allows a visualization of the macroscopic fine structure of the uterus, the uterine cavity, the endometrium, the myometrium, and the serosa . 5 In this in vitro study we investigated the diagnostic value of HG and HS for the evaluation of benign or malignant uterine diseases. With both methods, measurements were carried out with macroscopic and histologic specimens and correlated to each other.
MATERIALS AND METHODSIn an 18-month period we examined 50 uteri. The fresh specimens underwent HS and HG. The histologic re· suits are listed in Table 1.
HysterographyThe uterine cavity was filled with 4-8 ml Urovist (Schering) using a syringe directly inserted into the cervical channel. In cases of a significant reflux, the cervix was tied together with a pin. We used a Mammomat (Siemens, Erlangen, West+Germany) with 28 kV in anteroposterior projection. The geometric arrangement and the specimen/film-source distance were standardized.
HysterosonographyHS was performed with an SSD 500 (Aloka, Tokyo, Japan) with a transurethral transverse scanner (ASU 52). The frequency used was 7.5 MHz. After dilatation of the cervical channel to maximal Hegar 9 the scanner was introduced into the uterine cavity up to the fundus. Isotonic salt solution was introduced and transverse sectional images were documented every 0.5 cm from the fundus to the cervix. The location of each docu -