Obstetrics & Gynecology Instruments: The Hysterosalpingography (HSG) Set

What groups do obstetrics and gynecology instruments include?

Obstetrics and gynecology instruments serve many different needs, from examination and exposure of the operative field to tissue handling and support for diagnostic techniques. They can be grouped by function to make building a catalogue easier:

Each group has its own role. Selection should be based on the intended procedure and the actual configuration of each product; an HSG set does not replace a complete obstetrics and gynecology instrument set.

What is HSG? What role does an HSG instrument set play?

HSG — hysterosalpingography — is an X-ray imaging technique that uses contrast medium to examine the uterine cavity and the fallopian tubes. It helps physicians assess the shape of the uterine cavity and the patency of the fallopian tubes during an examination, including the investigation of infertility. [1][2]

In this procedure, the HSG instrument set supports access through the cervix and the introduction of contrast medium into the uterine cavity. The images are produced by the X-ray imaging system, not by the instrument set.

Three components should be clearly distinguished:

• HSG instrument set: supports handling and the introduction of contrast medium.
• Contrast medium: makes the structures being examined visible on the images.
• Imaging system: produces the images that the physician reads and assesses.

Indications and the way the procedure is performed are the responsibility of qualified medical staff.

Components of an HSG instrument set

The illustrations show a configuration with a cannula shaft, cervical cones, a glass syringe, a connecting valve assembly and a pressure gauge. These are also the components found in salpingograph instruments; the delivered configuration must be confirmed against the product code and the accompanying documents. [3]

Syringe capacity, pressure scale, cone size or materials should not be inferred from the images alone. This information must be checked directly against the specifications of the supplied configuration.

Nor is the case shown in the images automatically a case intended for sterilization cycles.

Selecting an HSG set: what should be checked?

1. Configuration and number of components

The name “HSG set” can be used for different configurations. When comparing quotations, review the list of each component, the number of cones, the type of cannula, the syringe, the connectors and the pressure gauge, if included.

A specific delivery list helps the healthcare facility identify which accessories are included and which instruments must be prepared separately.

2. Connection compatibility

The components must be compatible with one another according to the manufacturer's design. Connector type, fluid path, valves and replacement accessories should be confirmed before purchase.

Accessories should not be chosen only because they look similar or have similar external dimensions.

3. Specifications of each part

Points to review include instrument dimensions, syringe capacity, cone size and the characteristics of the pressure gauge. If the configuration includes a measuring part, also check the inspection and maintenance requirements in the accompanying documents.

Suitable specifications should be determined together with the clinical team of the facility using the set.

4. Cleaning and sterilization requirements

Do not assume that every part of the same set can withstand the same processing method. The instrument body, syringe, valves, seals and pressure gauge may have their own requirements.

The facility must follow the manufacturer's reprocessing instructions for each component, together with its own infection control procedures.

5. Documents and after-sales support

When requesting a quotation, ask for confirmation of the product name and code, the delivered configuration, the instructions for use, the warranty terms and the availability of replacement accessories.

This provides the basis for matching clinical needs, procurement documents and the actual product.

The HSG instrument set in the ELESUN catalogue

In the ELESUN obstetrics and gynecology instrument range, the Hysterosalpingography (HSG) Set, code ES-IN-59-002, is the product healthcare facilities can refer to when looking for a configuration that supports hysterosalpingography.

When sending a consultation request, customers can provide:

• The name or code of the product of interest.
• The list of components and the expected quantities.
• Requirements for dimensions, connections and accessories.
• Requests for documents needed for technical review and procurement.

ELESUN receives these requests to advise, confirm the configuration and provide a quotation for the specific product.

Explore more: Building Surgical Instrument Sets by Clinical Workflow · Principles of Reprocessing, Cleaning, Sterilization & Storage for Reusable Surgical Instruments.

Frequently asked questions

This content provides information about instruments and configuration choices; it does not replace the indications or procedural instructions of medical staff.