[Radiation exposure during digital hysterosalpingography: how much is due to fluoroscopy?].

PURPOSE

To determine the proportion of radiation exposure from fluoroscopy during the performance of hysterosalpingography, using a digital image intensifier.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

20 women with primary or secondary sterility were examined. The total radiation dose was measured and the proportion due to fluoroscopy was determined. The use of a computer programme permitted accurate differentiation of the dose obtained by fluoroscopy and radiography. Total mean radiation dose was 256 cGy x cm2; fluoroscopy contributed 187 cGy x cm2. On average, fluoroscopy contributed 69% of total radiation dose.

CONCLUSION

During hysterosalpingography with a digital image intensifier, fluoroscopy should be as brief as possible since it contributes most of the radiation dose.