Rubin’s apparatus for uterotubal insufflation, New York, United States, 1928
Potential blockage in the Fallopian tubes was assessed using this apparatus. It was developed by American gynaecologist Isidor Clinton Rubin (1883-1958). It blows carbon dioxide, via a cannula, into the uterus. The ease with which gas escaped through the Fallopian tubes was reflected by pressure changes on an instrument called a manometer. Blockage of the tubes is often due to previous infection or surgery. It is a common cause of infertility. Rubin’s test formed a standard part of infertility investigations for many years. It was gradually replaced by an X-ray technique involving radio-opaque ‘dye’ injected into the uterus. The apparatus was made by American maker Joseph Becker and the Ohio Chemical and Manufacturing Company. It was used at the Italian Hospital in London.
Object number:
A639503
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: genito-urinary medicine
The branch of medicine dealing with the genital and urinary organs.
Glossary: tubal insufflator
No description.