FALLOPIAN TUBE RECANALIZATION

If you struggle with infertility due to blocked fallopian tubes, our non-surgical solution safely removes blockages that may be hindering your ability to get pregnant, allowing you to conceive without the need for in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Fallopian tubal disease and occlusion account for 25-35% of all causes of infertility.

Definition

Before the procedure, an IV (intravenous line) is placed to administer medications to manage discomfort or help with relaxation. The doctor will place a speculum into the vagina, and then a small catheter is passed through the cervix into the uterus. Contrast is injected, enabling the doctor to visualize the uterus and fallopian tubes using fluoroscopy (a type of continuous x-ray). If a blockage is identified, the doctor will attempt to open the blockage by inserting a small, soft catheter through the blockage.

 

Risk Factors

Causes of fallopian tube blockage:

  • Mucous plugs
  • Prior pelvic infection
  • Endometriosis
  • Fibroids and polyps
  • Scarring after surgery

Treatment and Benefits

Benefits of fallopian tube recanalization:

  • Non-surgical procedure with no incision needed
  • No general anesthesia
  • Same-day procedure, with minimal to no recovery time
  • An increased chance of pregnancy if fallopian tube occlusion is the only cause of infertility, potentially eliminating the need for IVF

Average Recovery Time

Since fallopian tube recanalization unclogs the tubes but does not reverse the underlying process that caused them to become blocked, 20-50% of tubes may become re-occluded. If you do not become pregnant within six months after successful fallopian tube recanalization, you may want to make sure your tubes are still open.

What to Expect

During your consultation, VIE’s team of experts will assess your medical history and determine if fallopian tube recanalization is right for you. If eligible, the procedure will be performed in our state-of-the-art outpatient facility. The entire procedure typically lasts only 30 minutes, patients go home the same day, and little to no recovery time is needed. You’ll receive detailed post-procedure care instructions and follow-up to ensure optimal recovery and results.

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  2. Allahbadia, G. N., & Merchant, R. (2011). Fallopian tube recanalization: lessons learnt and future challenges. Women’s Health, 7(5), 531-548.https://doi.org/10.2217/WHE.11.44
  3. Chunyan, G., Bin, P., Ping, Y., Yue, Q., Nan, H., Chengyu, L., … & Shuzhong, Y. (2018). Assessment of the influence on spontaneous pregnancy of hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography. BioMed research international, 2018, 4901281.https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/4901281