Transvaginal sonohysterographic evaluation of intrauterine adhesions

Value of 2D ultrasonography in the diagnosis and evaluation of intrauterine adhesions - a prospective study

RESEARCH QUESTION

What is the value of 2D ultrasonography in the diagnosis and assessment of intrauterine adhesions (IUA)?

DESIGN

This was a prospective study conducted at a hysteroscopy centre.

RESULTS

Of a total of 600 subjects recruited, 41 dropped out and 559 were finally enrolled and analysed. The observed 2D ultrasonography features, in decreasing order of frequency, were 'irregular endometrium' (37.9%), 'broken endometrial echo' (23.4%), 'thin endometrium' (13.7%), 'loss of endometrial echo' (13.1%,), 'hyperechoic focus' (12.5%) and 'fluid in the cavity' (8.8%). The sensitivity of individual ultrasound features ranged from 8.8% to 37.9%, whereas the specificity of individual ultrasound features ranged from 78.9% to 100%. When all the six ultrasound features were considered together, the sensitivity and specificity were 71.7% and 66.2% respectively. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of ultrasound diagnosis in the mid-proliferative phase, peri-ovulatory phase and mid-luteal phase did not appear to be significantly different statistically, although the results in the mid-proliferative phase appeared to be consistently higher than those in the mid-luteal phase. In women confirmed to have IUA, the likelihood of the adhesions being severe in nature in the presence of zero, one, two or three or more ultrasound features was 8.7%, 23.0%, 40.2% and 80.5%, respectively (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings in this study support the notions that ultrasonography examination in women suspected to have IUA cannot replace hysteroscopy in the diagnosis of the condition. However, it does provide useful clinical information regarding severity and could help in the planning of hysteroscopy to optimize management.

Etiology, Risk Factors, and Management of Asherman Syndrome

Asherman syndrome is characterized by a triad of symptoms including pain, menstrual abnormalities, and infertility and is a result of intrauterine scar tissue after instrumentation of a gravid uterus. Saline sonohysterogram is typically the most sensitive diagnostic tool; however, hysteroscopy is the criterion standard for diagnosis. Treatment includes hysteroscopic-guided lysis of adhesion, with restoration of the anatomy of the uterine cavity. Several modalities are used in an attempt to reduce the reformation of scar tissue after surgery; however, there is no consensus on the ideal method. Stem cells and platelet-rich plasma are being explored as means of regenerative therapy for the endometrium, but data remain limited. At present, most individuals can have restoration of menstrual function; however, lower pregnancy rates and obstetric complications are not uncommon. These complications are worse for patients with a higher grade of disease. Efforts are needed in standardizing classification, reducing uterine instrumentation of the gravid uterus, and referring patients to health care professionals with clinical expertise in this area.

Modern assessment of the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes in the era of high-efficacy assisted reproductive technology

The high efficacy of modern assisted reproductive technology (ART) and increase in the number of noninfertile patients who are using ART for family building in the United States call into question the relevance of the standard, one-size-fits-all infertility evaluation. Here, we explore whether all patients presenting for ART need uterine cavity and tubal assessment and what tests are most appropriate, efficient, and cost-effective in current times.

Clinical application of three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasonography in the diagnosis of intrauterine adhesions

Objective

The present study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasonography (3D-TVS) for intrauterine adhesions (IUA).

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study. A total of 500 women aged 19 to 46 years with uterine lesions who received treatment from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology were enrolled. Endometrial 3D imaging was conducted to obtain the display plane and 3D-TVS parameters. Patients also underwent hysteroscopy for a definitive diagnosis.

Results

For diagnosing IUA, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and overall accuracy of 3D-TVS were 98.8%, 90.8%, 91.4%, 98.7%, and 94.8%, respectively. For diagnosing a submucosal myoma, the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and overall accuracy of 3D-TVS were 88.2%, 97.9%, 88.2%, 97.9%, and 96.4%, respectively. For diagnosing endometrial polyps, the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and overall accuracy of 3D-TVS were 94.7%, 96.8%, 92.9%, 97.7%, and 96.2%, respectively.

Conclusions

Before hysteroscopy, 3D-TVS, as a method of screening, has great value for comparing differences before and after treatment, and for evaluating therapeutic effects.

Fertility evaluation of infertile women: a committee opinion

Diagnostic evaluation for infertility in women should be conducted in a systematic, expeditious, and cost-effective manner to identify all the relevant factors with an initial emphasis on the least invasive methods for detecting the most common causes of infertility. The purpose of this committee opinion is to provide a critical review of the current methods and procedures for the evaluation of in fertile women, and it replaces the document of the same name, last published in 2015 (Fertil Steril 2015;103:e44-50). This guidance is intended for any provider evaluating women for infertility.

Virtual sonographic hysteroscopy in assisted reproduction: A retrospective cost-effectiveness analysis

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the cost-effectiveness of virtual sonographic hysteroscopy (VSH) performed before in vitro fertilization (IVF) (Scenario 1), frozen embryo transfer (Scenario 2), and oocyte donation (Scenario 3) attempts.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of data extracted from patients' files was conducted. Before undergoing the assigned treatment, VSH was offered to all patients. Cost-effectiveness was calculated on the basis of cost per live birth. The total cost was compared with a control group of patients who declined to have hysteroscopy before their treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 292 women were involved. Virtual sonographic hysteroscopy was performed in 192 women. Conventional operative hysteroscopy was subsequently required in 34 of them (17.7%). Subsequent assisted reproduction attempts resulted in live birth in 111 women-34/69 (49.3%), 35/69 (50.7%), and 42/54 (77.8%) in Scenarios 1, 2, and 3, respectively. This compared favorably with 100 women who declined VSH, with live birth achieved in 15/39 (38.5%), 14/37 (37.8%), and 15/24 (62.5%) in Scenarios 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The overall cost-effectiveness of VSH compared favorably with straightforward treatment performed without this test.

CONCLUSION

The overall cost-effectiveness of treatment attempts carried out after previous VSH compared favorably with straightforward treatment performed without this test.

Mini-Review of the New Therapeutic Possibilities in Asherman Syndrome-Where Are We after One Hundred and Twenty-Six Years?

Asherman syndrome is a multifaceted condition describing the partial or complete removal of the uterine cavity and/or cervical canal. It is a highly debatable topic because of its pronounced influence on both reproductive outcomes and gynaecologic symptoms. The latest reports demonstrated that trauma to the endometrium is the main cause of intrauterine adhesion formation. Left untreated, such adhesions gradually lead to a range of repercussions ranging from mild to severe. Considering the lack of non-invasive approaches, the advent of hysteroscopy has revolutionized the entire field, being otherwise considered the most efficient tool offering new directions and amplifying the chances of treating the Asherman syndrome.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Female Infertility

The most common known causes of female infertility are male factor (26%), ovulatory failure (21%), and tubal damage (14%), while in 28% a couple's infertility remains unexplained. Female-specific causes of infertility include deterioration of oocyte quality with increasing maternal age; ovulatory disorders, most notably polycystic ovarian syndrome; history of salpingitis such as that caused by chlamydia infection; endometriosis; and uterine cavity abnormalities interfering with implantation causing inability to become pregnant or causing recurrent pregnancy loss. These potential causes of female infertility are discussed in this document and the appropriate imaging recommendations for each variant are provided. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of well-established methodologies (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where evidence is lacking or equivocal, expert opinion may supplement the available evidence to recommend imaging or treatment.

Evaluation and treatment of infertile women with Asherman syndrome: an updated review focusing on the role of hysteroscopy

Asherman syndrome is a rare acquired clinical condition resulting in the obliteration of the uterine cavity causedby the presence of partial or complete fibrous intrauterine adhesions involving at least two-thirds of the uterine cavity potentially obstructing the internal cervical orifice. Common reported symptoms of the disease are alterations of the menstrual pattern with decreased menstrual bleeding leading up to amenorrhoea and infertility. Hysteroscopy is currently considered the gold standard diagnostic and therapeutic approach for patients with intrauterine adhesions. An integrated approach, including preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative therapeutic measures, however, are warranted owing to the complexity of the syndrome. This review aims to summarize the most recent evidence on the recommended preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative procedures to restore the uterine cavity and a functional endometrium, as well as on the concomitant use of adjuvant therapies to achieve optimal fertility outcomes.

Asherman syndrome and insufficient endometrial thickness: A hypothesis of integrated approach to restore the endometrium

Asherman syndrome consists in an acquired condition characterized by the development of fibrous intrauterine adhesions involving until two-thirds of the uterine cavity. Common signs of the syndrome are represented by alterations of regular menses, hypomenorrhea and amenorrhea. Moreover, women affected by Asherman syndrome, often struggle with fertility problems such as difficulty in spontaneous conceiving as well as complications including recurrent pregnancy loss and invasive placentation. The abnormality of the endometrial line consisting in insufficient thickness and/or endometrial trauma damaging the decidua basalis, are characteristic elements of the disease. Several studies have been conducted during the last ten years to find a solution restoring the regular endometrial line solving the fertility issue in Asherman women. Hormonal therapy as well as the use of stem cells seem to represent valid options to regenerate the endometrium opening a new scenario in the fertility treatment of these women. In this context, the presented study proposes an integrated approach to reach an adequate endometrial reconstitution and consequentially optimal fertility outcomes.

Screening hysteroscopy in subfertile women and women undergoing assisted reproduction

BACKGROUND

Screening hysteroscopy in infertile women with unexplained infertility, or prior to intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilisation (IVF) may reveal intrauterine pathology that may not be detected by routine transvaginal ultrasound. Hysteroscopy, whether purely diagnostic or operative may improve reproductive outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and safety of screening hysteroscopy in subfertile women undergoing evaluation for infertility, and subfertile women undergoing IUI or IVF.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL CRSO, MEDLINE, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (September 2018). We searched reference lists of relevant articles and handsearched relevant conference proceedings.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials comparing screening hysteroscopy versus no intervention in subfertile women wishing to conceive spontaneously, or before undergoing IUI or IVF.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. The primary outcomes were live birth rate and complications following hysteroscopy. We analysed data using risk ratio (RR) and a fixed-effect model. We assessed the quality of the evidence by using GRADE criteria.

MAIN RESULTS

We retrieved 11 studies. We included one trial that evaluated screening hysteroscopy versus no hysteroscopy, in women with unexplained subfertility, who were trying to conceive spontaneously. We are uncertain whether ongoing pregnancy rate improves following a screening hysteroscopy in women with at least two years of unexplained subfertility (RR 4.30, 95% CI 2.29 to 8.07; 1 RCT; participants = 200; very low-quality evidence). For a typical clinic with a 10% ongoing pregnancy rate without hysteroscopy, performing a screening hysteroscopy would be expected to result in ongoing pregnancy rates between 23% and 81%. The included study reported no adverse events in either treatment arm. We are uncertain whether clinical pregnancy rate is improved (RR 3.80, 95% CI 2.31 to 6.24; 1 RCT; participants = 200; very low-quality evidence), or miscarriage rate increases (RR 2.80, 95% CI 1.05 to 7.48; 1 RCT; participants = 200; very low-quality evidence), following screening hysteroscopy in women with at least two years of unexplained subfertility.We included ten trials that included 1836 women who had a screening hysteroscopy and 1914 women who had no hysteroscopy prior to IVF. Main limitations in the quality of evidence were inadequate reporting of study methods and higher statistical heterogeneity. Eight of the ten trials had unclear risk of bias for allocation concealment.Performing a screening hysteroscopy before IVF may increase live birth rate (RR 1.26, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.43; 6 RCTs; participants = 2745; I² = 69 %; low-quality evidence). For a typical clinic with a 22% live birth rate, performing a screening hysteroscopy would be expected to result in live birth rates between 25% and 32%. However, sensitivity analysis done by pooling results from trials at low risk of bias showed no increase in live birth rate following a screening hysteroscopy (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.82 to 1.18; 2 RCTs; participants = 1452; I² = 0%).Only four trials reported complications following hysteroscopy; of these, three trials recorded no events in either group. We are uncertain whether a screening hysteroscopy is associated with higher adverse events (Peto odds ratio 7.47, 95% CI 0.15 to 376.42; 4 RCTs; participants = 1872; I² = not applicable; very low-quality evidence).Performing a screening hysteroscopy before IVF may increase clinical pregnancy rate (RR 1.32, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.45; 10 RCTs; participants = 3750; I² = 49%; low-quality evidence). For a typical clinic with a 28% clinical pregnancy rate, performing a screening hysteroscopy would be expected to result in clinical pregnancy rates between 33% and 40%.There may be little or no difference in miscarriage rate following screening hysteroscopy (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.50; 3 RCTs; participants = 1669; I² = 0%; low-quality evidence).We found no trials that compared a screening hysteroscopy versus no hysteroscopy before IUI.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

At present, there is no high-quality evidence to support the routine use of hysteroscopy as a screening tool in the general population of subfertile women with a normal ultrasound or hysterosalpingogram in the basic fertility work-up for improving reproductive success rates.In women undergoing IVF, low-quality evidence, including all of the studies reporting these outcomes, suggests that performing a screening hysteroscopy before IVF may increase live birth and clinical pregnancy rates. However, pooled results from the only two trials with a low risk of bias did not show a benefit of screening hysteroscopy before IVF.Since the studies showing an effect are those with unclear allocation concealment, we are uncertain whether a routine screening hysteroscopy increases live birth and clinical pregnancy, be it for all women, or those with two or more failed IVF attempts. There is insufficient data to draw conclusions about the safety of screening hysteroscopy.

Asherman's syndrome: current perspectives on diagnosis and management

Intrauterine adhesions with symptoms like hypomenorrhea or infertility are known under the term Asherman's syndrome. Although the syndrome has been widely investigated, evidence of both prevention of the syndrome and the ideal treatment are missing. Understanding the pathogenesis of intrauterine adherences is necessary for the prevention of the formation of intrauterine scarring. Intrauterine adhesions can develop from lesion of the basal layer of the endometrium caused by curettage of the newly pregnant uterus. The syndrome may also occur after hysteroscopic surgery, uterine artery embolization or uterine tuberculosis. For initial diagnosis the less invasive contrast sonohysterography or hysterosalpingography is useful. The final diagnosis is based on hysteroscopy. Magnetic resonance imaging is required in cases with totally obliterated uterine cavity. Intrauterine adherences are classified in accordance with different classification systems based on the hysteroscopic diagnosis of severity and localization of adherences. Classification is necessary for the planning of surgery, information on prognosis and scientific purposes. Surgery is performed in symptomatic patients with either infertility or with painful periods. Intrauterine adherences are divided with a hysteroscope using scissors or a power instrument working from the central part of the uterus to the periphery. Peroperative ultrasonography is useful in an outpatient setting for the prevention of complications. Hysteroscopy with fluoroscopy is a solution in difficult cases. Use of intrauterine devices like balloon catheters or intrauterine contraceptive devices seems to be the preferred methods for the prevention of re-occurrence of adhesions after treatment. Both primary prevention after hysteroscopic surgery or curettage and secondary prevention of new adhesions after adhesiolysis have been investigated. The aim of this review was to summarize the literature on diagnosis, classification, treatment and prevention, based on a literature search with a wide range of search terms.

Assessment of the uterus with three-dimensional ultrasound in women undergoing ART

BACKGROUND

A detailed assessment of the uterus forms a pivotal part of the ART treatment process. The emergence of three-dimensional ultrasound (3D US) has provided clinicians with a highly powerful tool in this respect. Assessments with 3D US range from the reconstruction of anatomical planes elusive to conventional US, to the objective measurement of anatomical volumes and vascularization parameters. However, despite the ever increasing number of publications emerging in the literature, the question of which aspects of 3D US are of most clinical value remains a topic of debate.

OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE

The objective of this review is to dissect which aspects of the 3D US assessment of the uterus are supported by a strong level of evidence to date, and should therefore be incorporated into current routine clinical practice.

SEARCH METHODS

We conducted a systematic search of the PubMed database up to May 2016, using a combination of text words and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) pertaining to the 3D US assessment of the uterus. All articles published in the English language were screened to ascertain relevance to women of reproductive age; further citations were retrieved through manual reference list searching.

OUTCOMES

A multitude of predominantly observational studies were identified, which concerned a vast variety of 3D US uterine assessments. All articles unequivocally praised the non-invasive, cost-effective, highly acceptable and objective nature of 3D US. Studies regarding the value of assessing the endometrial volume and vascularization prior to embryo transfer appeared conflicting and inconsistent. Studies regarding the imaging of uterine pathology and identification of intratubal and intrauterine devices consistently reported high rates of diagnostic accuracy. A recent RCT did not show an improvement in clinical outcomes when comparing 3D versus 2D US during embryo transfer. However, preliminary studies suggested that 3D US is superior in determining the site of implantation, particularly in ambiguous cases such as interstitial and angular pregnancies. Finally, pilot studies have suggested that the further integration of 3D and possibly 4D US with surgical interventions of the uterus may be a promising prospect.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS

3D US may prove to be an invaluable tool in the assessment of the uterus within the context of ART. Currently, the aim should be to highlight the aspects of 3D US that are most evidence-based and valuable for patients, and to incorporate these into routine clinical practice.

Accuracy of three dimensional ultrasound and treatment outcomes of intrauterine adhesion in infertile women

OBJECTIVE

To determine the accuracy and usefulness of three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasound (3D-TVUS) in diagnosing intrauterine adhesion (IUA) and to evaluate treatment outcomes associated with fertility.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

IUA patients (110) underwent hysteroscopy to definitively diagnose and treat adhesiolysis. Morphologic characteristics of endometrium suggesting IUA, such as marginal irregularity, thinning, defects, obliteration, fibrosis, and calcification, were identified and recorded by 3D-TVUS. The sensitivity of 3D-TVUS findings and the attainment of postoperative fertility were evaluated prospectively. The clinical records were followed up for 2 years for obstetrical outcomes and analyzed.

RESULTS

On comparing the findings of 3D-TVUS with those of hysteroscopy in 110 patients, 45 (88.23%) patients were confirmed as IUA by hysteroscopy among 51 (46.36%) patients, with one finding in 3D-TVUS; 42 (97.67%) patients were confirmed among 43 (39.09%) patients with two findings; and 16 (100%) patients were confirmed among 16 (14.55%) patients with over three findings. A pregnancy rate of eight out of 47 (17.02%) was achieved in patients who desired fertility.

CONCLUSION

3D-TVUS assessment of the uterus provides an accurate depiction of adhesion and extent of cavity damage in patients with suspected IUA.

The role of imaging in the investigation of Asherman's syndrome

Asherman's syndrome has significant reproductive implications for patients. In most case series, the rate of fertility and full term birth directly correlates to extent of disease. However, there does not seem to be a connection between number of prior curettages, nor aetiology of adhesions in predicting outcome. Without a universally accepted classification system, comparison of research data and results for imaging modalities is difficult.

Intrauterine adhesion after transvaginal ultrasound-guided radiofrequency myolysis

Transvaginal ultrasound-guided radiofrequency myolysis offers an alternative to surgery for symptomatic uterine myomas, with encouraging efficacy and safety, suggesting low complication rates. This case study describes the first reported intrauterine adhesion after transvaginal ultrasound-guided radiofrequency myolysis. Women who desire further pregnancy should be warned about the particular risk of intrauterine adhesion of radiofrequency myolysis.

Diagnostic evaluation of the infertile female: a committee opinion

Diagnostic evaluation for infertility in women should be conducted in a systematic, expeditious, and cost-effective manner to identify all relevant factors with initial emphasis on the least invasive methods for detection of the most common causes of infertility. The purpose of this committee opinion is to provide a critical review of the current methods and procedures for the evaluation of the infertile female, and it replaces the document of the same name, last published in 2012 (Fertil Steril 2012;98:302–7).

The evolving role of saline infusion sonography (SIS) in infertility

Saline infusion sonography (SIS) has become a valuable diagnostic modality in gynaecology over the last three decades. SIS is now commonly employed for detailed evaluation of the uterine cavity as part of pre-treatment assessment in infertile women. The objective of this paper is review the scientific literature on SIS in infertility. Medline, Ovid and Cochrane databases were searched for relevant articles. The indications, technical aspects and the potential advantages of SIS are discussed. The efficacy and sensitivity of SIS are compared to hysteroscopy in the evaluation of uterine polyps, fibroids, intrauterine adhesions and uterine anomalies. Increasing evidence suggests the use of SIS prior to an in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle as it has increased sensitivity in the detection of intrauterine pathology. SIS is cost-effective and results in better patient satisfaction scores than hysteroscopy.

Ovarian thrombosis and uterine synechiae after arterial embolization for a late postpartum haemorrhage

Background

We report two unusual separate complications after uterine artery embolization for a late postpartum haemorrhage. This report appeared important to us in view of the apparent absence of any other publications on this topic.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 25-year-old woman, gravida 3, para 1, admitted for uterine bleeding 7 days after a spontaneous delivery at term, in our university hospital. A suction curettage and then, after persistent bleeding, uterine artery embolization were necessary. Immediately after the embolization, a bilateral ovarian thrombosis occurred, subsequently followed by amenorrhea, due to uterine synechiae, and depression. Hysteroscopic surgery was performed to remove the adhesions. A complete work-up for thrombophilia showed a heterozygous mutation of the factor V gene R506Q. The pathology examination found subinvolution of the placental bed. One month after treatment of the synechiae (and insertion of a copper IUD for contraception), the woman's menstrual cycle returned to normal. Her clinical examination 19 months later was normal.

Conclusions

This case teaches us that one rare complication can hide another! It is important to consider the diagnosis of subinvolution of the placental bed in cases of late PPH and to know the complications associated with vascular artery embolization in order to provide the most rapid and least invasive treatment.

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Arterial embolization is associated with ovarian thrombosis.

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Do not forget the subinvolution of the placental bed in late postpartum haemorrhage.

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Suction curettage can lead to uterine synechiae.

The management of Asherman syndrome: a review of literature

Asherman syndrome is a debatable topic in gynaecological field and there is no clear consensus about management and treatment. It is characterized by variable scarring inside the uterine cavity and it is also cause of menstrual disturbances, infertility and placental abnormalities. The advent of hysteroscopy has revolutionized its diagnosis and management and is therefore considered the most valuable tool in diagnosis and management. The aim of this review is to explore the most recent evidence related to this condition with regards to aetiology, diagnosis management and follow up strategies.

Role of 3D sonohysterography in the investigation of uterine synechiae/asherman's syndrome: pictorial assay

Several imaging methods have been applied for evaluation of suspected uterine synechiae; however, sonohysterography is yet recognised as a valid and accurate modality. Performing three-dimensional (3D) imaging along with sonohysterography enables evaluation of the uterus in the coronal plane to detect and grade the adhesions that characterise this condition. Thus, 3D sonohysterography is a minimally invasive and cost-effective tool for investigating suspected synechiae and is particularly useful when the transvaginal sonography findings are normal.

Sonohysterography: Principles, technique and role in diagnosis of endometrial pathology

Sonohysterography (SHG), which provides enhanced endometrial visualization during standard transvaginal ultrasonography, is a relatively safe procedure for the evaluation of endometrial pathology. It can be used to evaluate patients with abnormal vaginal bleeding or infertility. This modality offers real time imaging of the endometrium without exposure to ionizing radiation. SHG is typically used in patients for whom standard transvaginal ultrasonography does not show the endometrium well, show a potential abnormality for which further imaging is required, or in patients without endometrial pathology defined on routine transvaginal imaging but in whom there is a strong clinical suspicion of an abnormality. This article will discuss the utility of the sonohysterogram in evaluation of various endometrial pathologies. Imaging examples of these pathological entities will be illustrated as well.

Diagnostic evaluation of the infertile female: a committee opinion

Diagnostic evaluation for infertility in women should be conducted in a systematic, expeditious, and cost-effective manner to identify all relevant factors with initial emphasis on the least invasive methods for detection of the most common causes of infertility. The purpose of this Committee Opinion is to provide a critical review of the current methods and procedures for the evaluation of the infertile female, and it replaces the 2006 ASRM Practice Committee document titled "Optimal evaluation of the infertile female."

Changes in endometrial receptivity in women with Asherman's syndrome undergoing hysteroscopic adhesiolysis

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether there is any improvement in the endometrial receptivity in infertile women with Asherman's syndrome undergoing hysteroscopic adhesiolysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective observational clinical analysis of 40 infertile patients who underwent hysteroscopic adhesiolysis for Asherman's syndrome in a tertiary level hospital. Endometrial thickness and blood flow impedance of the uterine spiral artery by transvaginal color pulsed Doppler ultrasound was measured post-menstrual on day 2/3 and post-menstrual on day 21 pre- and post-hysteroscopic adhesiolysis or at a randomly chosen time in patients with amenorrhea.

RESULTS

The age of the patients was 18-36 years (mean 29.2 years). The mean duration of infertility was 6.9 years. There were 27 (67.5 %) women with primary infertility and 13 (32.5 %) had secondary infertility. 22 (55 %) women had had genital tuberculosis in the past. A significant improvement in the endometrial thickness was observed on day 2 (p < 0.0001) and day 21 (p < 0.0001) 3 months post-adhesiolysis. The spiral artery RI was statistically significant (p < 0.04) on day 2 pre-adhesiolysis compared to post-adhesiolysis.

CONCLUSIONS

A significant improvement in the endometrial thickness was observed post-adhesiolysis. A high blood flow impedance of spiral artery perhaps impairs growth of the endometrium making it unsuitable for successful implantation.

Comprehensive management of severe Asherman syndrome and amenorrhea

OBJECTIVE

To describe a comprehensive approach to women with severe Asherman syndrome and amenorrhea, including preoperative, operative, and postoperative care and subsequent resumption menses, and pregnancy.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

SETTING

Tertiary care teaching hospital.

PATIENT(S)

Twelve women with severe Asherman syndrome and amenorrhea.

INTERVENTION(S)

Preoperative administration of prolonged preoperative and postoperative oral E(2) to enhance endometrial proliferation, intraoperative abdominal ultrasound-directed hysteroscopic lysis of uterine synechia to ensure that the dissection is performed in the proper tissue plane, placement of a triangular uterine balloon catheter during surgery, and postoperative removal with placement of a copper intrauterine device (IUD) to maintain separation of the cavity and mechanically lyse newly formed adhesions during removal.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Resumption of menses, pregnancy, and delivery.

RESULT(S)

All women resumed menses, although 5 of 12 had a preoperative maximal endometrial thickness of 4 mm or less, with follow-up ranging from 6 months to 10 years. Six of nine women less than age 39 years (67%) became pregnant, and four of six achieved a term or near-term delivery.

CONCLUSION(S)

Comprehensive management provides the best possible outcomes in poor-prognosis women with severe Asherman syndrome.

Review of intrauterine adhesions

This article has been produced to review the literature on symptomatic and asymptomatic intrauterine adhesions. Electronic resources including Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, The Cochrane Library (including the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews), Current Contents, and EMBASE were searched using the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), including all subheadings, and the keywords "Asherman syndrome," "Hysteroscopic lysis of adhesions," "Hysteroscopic synechiolysis," "Hysteroscopy and adhesion," "Intrauterine adhesions," "Intrauterine septum and synechiae," and "Obstetric outcomes after intrauterine surgery." The vast majority of evidence in the literature consists of uncontrolled case series, with only intrauterine adhesion barriers being assessed in a randomized controlled format. This article reviews epidemiology, pathologic features, classification systems, and treatments. Seven classification systems are described, with no universal acceptance of any one system and no validation of any of them. Hysteroscopy is the mainstay of both diagnosis and treatment, with medical treatments having no role in management. There is a wide range of treatment techniques with no controlled comparative studies, and assessments are descriptive and report fertility and menstrual outcomes, with more severe adhesions having the worst clinical outcomes. One of the most important features of treatment is prevention of recurrence, with the best available evidence demonstrating that newly developed adhesion barriers such as hyaluronic acid show promise for preventing new adhesions.

Asherman syndrome--one century later

OBJECTIVE

To provide an update on the current knowledge of Asherman syndrome.

DESIGN

Literature review.

SETTING

The worldwide reports of this disease.

PATIENT(S)

Patients with Asherman syndrome who presented with amenorrhea or hypomenorrhea, infertility, or recurrent pregnancy loss.

INTERVENTION(S)

Hysteroscopy and hysteroscopic surgery have been the gold standard of diagnosis and treatment respectively for this condition.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

The etiology, pathology, symptomatology, diagnosis, treatment, and reproductive outcomes were analyzed.

RESULT(S)

This syndrome occurs mainly as a result of trauma to the gravid uterine cavity, which leads to the formation of intrauterine and/or intracervical adhesions. Despite the advances in hysteroscopic surgery, the treatment of moderate to severe Asherman syndrome still presents a challenge. Furthermore, pregnancy after treatment remains high risk with complications including spontaneous abortion, preterm delivery, intrauterine growth restriction, placenta accrete or praevia, or even uterine rupture.

CONCLUSION(S)

The management of moderate to severe disease still poses a challenge, and the prognosis of severe disease remains poor. Close antenatal surveillance and monitoring are necessary for women who conceive after treatment.

Intra-uterine adhesions and fertility outcome: how to optimize success?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the etiology, diagnosis, and clinical manifestations of intra-uterine adhesions and to address treatment with a specific focus on fertility outcome.

RECENT FINDINGS

Intra-uterine adhesions can cause recurrent pregnancy loss and infertility. The gravid or recently postpartum uterus is particularly susceptible to adhesion formation following instrumentation. While sonohysterography and hysterosalpingography are useful as screening tests of intra-uterine adhesions, hysteroscopy remains the mainstay of diagnosis and treatment. Hysteroscopic lysis of adhesions with scissors, electrosurgery, or laser can restore the size and shape of the endometrial cavity. Significantly obliterated cavities may require multiple procedures to achieve a satisfactory anatomical result. Postoperative mechanical distention of the endometrial cavity and hormonal treatment to facilitate endometrial regrowth appear to decrease the high rate of adhesion reformation. Newer antiadhesive barriers may also prevent the recurrence of intra-uterine adhesions. Endometrial development can remain stunted due to a scant amount of residual functioning endometrium and fibrosis. Potential pregnancy complications, especially placenta accreta, after the treatment of intra-uterine adhesions should be anticipated and discussed with the patient.

SUMMARY

Diagnosis and treatment of intra-uterine adhesions are integral to the optimization of fertility outcomes. Favorable results in terms of pregnancy and live birth rates can be expected after hysteroscopic adhesiolysis.

Septums and synechiae: approaches to surgical correction

If the Müllerian ducts fail to fuse, or, if the wall which is the result of fusion is not adequately resorbed, the result is a spectrum of uterine abnormalities called Müllerian fusion and absorption defects. The impact of these abnormalities on fertility is a subject for debate, but at least a subset seems to have a negative impact on reproductive performance manifesting in recurrent abortion and/or premature labor. Previous surgical interventions required laparotomy, but, with careful application of imaging techniques, a group of patients can be identified with a uterine septum amenable to removal under hysteroscopic direction with little morbidity. Intrauterine adhesions or synechiae are usually secondary to curettage in the context of missed abortion or pregnancy-related hemorrhage. These lesions cover a spectrum that ranges from minor and insignificant to severe cohesive adhesions that affect menstrual function and fertility. Surgical repair of the endometrial cavity affected with such adhesions presents a challenge to the hysteroscopic surgeon. Appropriate management is controversial but may include second loop hysteroscopy and the use of postoperative adjuvants such as systemic estrogens and intrauterine devices or systems designed to impede the development of adhesions.

Prevalence of uterine defects in habitual abortion patients attended on at a University Health Service in Brazil

OBJECTIVES

Assessment of the prevalence and types of uterine defects in patients with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) through hysteroscopy (HTC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty non pregnant patients with history of three or more consecutive spontaneous abortions were evaluated through HTC. The findings were separated into three groups: synechias, polypoids lesions (endometrial polyps and submucous myomas), and alterations of the cavity shape (mullerian anomalies). The findings were gathered and tabulated according to the presence of each defect.

RESULTS

Uterine anomalies were observed in 23 (38.3%) patients, with 16 (26.7%) synechias, 3 (5.0%) polypoids lesions and 8 (13.3%) shape alterations.

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained here suggest that the uterine factor has high prevalence in patients with a RPL history, and for this reason it should be systematically assessed in patients with a RPL history.

Which infertile women should be indicated for sonohysterography?

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the indications for transvaginal saline contrast sonohysterography (TV-SCSH) in endometrial screening by transvaginal sonography in infertile women.

METHODS

The study involved 850 consecutive infertile women presenting to an outpatient clinic. Using transvaginal ultrasound endometrial images were evaluated in the proliferative phase. Abnormal images were classified as follows: rugged (R), hyperechoic (H), waved (W), or thick (T). Clinical symptoms such as hypermenorrhea, dysmenorrhea and abnormal uterine bleeding were also recorded. Abnormal endometrial images were further evaluated on TV-SCSH. Age-matched women with normal endometrial images underwent TV-SCSH as controls.

RESULTS

The endometrial pattern was abnormal in 111 patients (13.1%). Lesions that had been identified by TV-SCSH including endometrial polyps (44 cases), submucosal myomata (29 cases), and intramural myomata with mucosal extension (24 cases) were largely associated with the R and/or the H pattern, the W or the T pattern, and the W pattern, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of the abnormal endometrial image for any lesion were 100% and 91.5%, respectively. Sixty-four patients (59.3%) were asymptomatic despite an abnormal endometrial image.

CONCLUSIONS

TV-SCSH should be performed on selected patients following assessment of endometrial images on transvaginal sonography in order to diagnose intra- and pericavitary lesions in infertile women.

Diagnostic value of sonohysterography in the evaluation of submucosal fibroids and endometrial polyps

AIMS

To evaluate the diagnostic value of sonohysterography in the evaluation of submucosal fibroids and endometrial polyps.

METHODS

Thirty-two women whose preliminary transvaginal ultrasound suggested endometrial abnormality underwent sonohysterography. The findings were then compared with histopathological results.

RESULTS

The sonohysterographic diagnosis was fibroid in seven patients, endometrial polyp in 23 patients and simple hyperplasia in two patients. Histopathological findings confirmed our diagnosis in all except three patients with endometrial polyps, who had normal secretory endometrium. Sonohysterography was found to have a sensitivity of 100%, a positive predictive value of 90% and diagnostic accuracy of 90.6%.

CONCLUSION

Sonohysterography is a useful, minimally invasive and accurate technique to evaluate the pathologies involving endometrium and uterine cavity.