A novel technique of vagino-hysteroscopy using alginate gel interface: A proof of concept study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the feasibility of vagino-hysteroscopy using alginate gel Interface (VAGI) with conventional vaginoscopic hysteroscopy (CVH).

METHODS: Thirty women undergoing diagnostic vagino-hysteroscopy were randomly allocated into Group I (VAGI): Alginate occluder was used at introitus to facilitate hydrodistension during hysteroscopy; or Group II: Underwent no-touch hysteroscopy. Primary outcome was feasibility, defined as successful visualization of uterine cavity. Secondary outcomes included operative time, hydrostatic pressures for optimum visualization, pain experienced by patient on visual analog scale, maneuverability and surgeon satisfaction. Data analysis was performed using χ2 and Fisher exact tests for qualitative variables and Student t test for quantitative variables.

RESULTS: VAGI was significantly better than CVH (80% vs. 33.3%; relative risk 8, P = 0.025). With VAGI, optimum visualization was achieved at significantly lower pressures at all levels (vagina, P = 0.034; cervix, P = 0.01; uterus, P < 0.001), in less time (P = 0.007), and using less irrigation fluid (P < 0.001). Surgeon satisfaction was significantly higher for VAGI (P = 0.009). Subgroup analysis showed higher likelihood of success of VAGI in women who were premenopausal (P = 0.015), younger than 45 years (P = 0.024), and had a history of vaginal birth (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS: VAGI is quicker to perform and provides optimum visualization at much lower pressures than CVH. Use of alginate is patient friendly and yields higher surgeon satisfaction rate.