CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of a hysterosalpingogram?

1. To view the uterus only

2. To assess the patency of the fallopian tubes

3. To conduct a biopsy

4. To perform a Pap smear

The correct answer is: To assess the patency of the fallopian tubes

The primary purpose of a hysterosalpingogram is to assess the patency of the fallopian tubes. This specialized imaging procedure involves the injection of a contrast material into the uterine cavity, followed by X-ray imaging. By visualizing the flow of the contrast through the uterus and into the fallopian tubes, healthcare providers can determine whether the tubes are open (patent) or blocked. This information is crucial in evaluating female infertility, as blocked fallopian tubes can prevent sperm from reaching the egg or hinder the implantation of a fertilized egg. While the procedure does involve viewing the uterus as part of the overall imaging, its primary focus is on the condition of the fallopian tubes. Other choices, such as conducting a biopsy or performing a Pap smear, pertain to different diagnostic methods and are not the intended use of a hysterosalpingogram. A biopsy involves taking tissue samples for examination, while a Pap smear is used primarily for cervical cancer screening. The hysterosalpingogram is distinctly designed to gather insights regarding reproductive anatomy and function, specifically related to the fallopian tubes.