Interventional Radiology: Uterus / Gynecologic
Fallopian Tube Recanalization

Fallopian tube recanalization is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked fallopian tubes in patients with a history of infertility and confirmed proximal tubal occlusion (obstruction of a fallopian tube near its juncture / joining with the uterus). Proximal occlusion is diagnosed prior to the procedure via hysterosalpingogram, a fluoroscopic x-ray examination.

For procedure, fallopian tube recanalization, the patient is positioned as for routine pelvic exam and a vaginal speculum is inserted. Tiny catheters are inserted vaginally through the cervix into the uterus. First, a guidewire is passed through the catheter to the obstruction and an injection is infused through the catheter in an attempt to open the blockage. If disruption of the obstruction is unsuccessful, the guidewire is passed gently and repeatedly through the blockage to open the fallopian tube.

Not all women with history of infertility are considered candidates for fallopian tube recanalization. Women with prior pelvic inflammatory disease, tubal or ovarian abscesses and / or other pelvic conditions are generally not considered for the procedure. For the appropriate candidate, fallopian tube recanalization is considered a low risk procedure, however, the procedure is associated with an increased risk for ectopic pregnancy.