Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is a widely utilised diagnostic and therapeutic X-ray procedure for assessing uterine and fallopian tube abnormalities in women experiencing infertility. With one in six couples in Ireland facing fertility challenges, HSG plays a pivotal role in fertility assessments. However, significant variations in practices and radiation dose levels across clinics highlight a pressing need for standardisation. While the National Diagnostic Reference Level (DRL) for HSG is 1.4 Gy.cm², preliminary investigations indicate dose levels ranging from 0.04 to 4.3 Gy.cm², raising concerns about consistency in patient care and safety.
This project aims to contrast and analyse HSG imaging practices across multiple radiology departments in Ireland to identify optimal techniques that balance image quality and radiation exposure. Key objectives include investigating existing processes, gathering and analysing data on patient dosimetry and image quality, and developing a novel, clinically relevant image quality metric. Collaboration with radiologists and radiographers will ensure a multidisciplinary approach to interpreting findings and generating practical recommendations.
The study hypothesises that substantial differences in techniques contribute to the observed variability in radiation dose and image quality. It seeks to establish evidence-based guidelines to align practices with DRLs, improve diagnostic accuracy, and minimise radiation risks.
For students, this project offers an interdisciplinary learning experience encompassing clinical radiology optimisation, image processing, radiation risk analysis, and data-driven decision-making. For the hosting institution, the research promises a comprehensive review of current HSG practices, opportunities for protocol standardisation, and alignment with national benchmarks. The findings are expected to advance knowledge in radiology, contribute to patient safety, and support dissemination through peer-reviewed publications, benefiting both the academic and clinical communities.