What is fallopian tube recanalization?

Fallopian tube recanalization (FTR) is a nonsurgical procedure to clear blockages in the fallopian tubes, part of a woman’s reproductive system.

What are fallopian tubes?

The fallopian tubes are important for female fertility. They are the passageways for the eggs to travel from the ovaries to the uterus. During conception:

1. The ovary releases an egg, which travels into the fallopian tube.

2. Sperm travels into the fallopian tubes to fertilize the egg.

3. The resulting embryo is nourished and transported to the uterus where the pregnancy continues.

A common cause of female infertility is a blockage of the fallopian tubes, usually as the result of debris that has built up. Occasionally, scarring from surgery or serious infection can lead to a blockage as well.

What happens during a fallopian tube recanalization?

Fallopian tube recanalization (FTR) is a nonsurgical procedure our interventional radiologists use to treat these blockages. Recanalization is the medical term for “reopening.”

During the procedure, which does not require any needles or incisions, we will:

1. Place a speculum into the vagina and pass a small plastic tube (catheter) through the cervix into the uterus.

2. Inject a liquid contrast agent (dye) through the catheter.

3. Examine the uterine cavity using an X-ray fluoroscopy.

4. Obtain a hystero-salpingogram or HSG. Literally, that means a fallopian tube to clear the blockage.

5. Determine if there is a blockage and if it is located on one or both fallopian tubes.

6. Passes a smaller catheter and microwire through the first catheter and then into the fallopian tube to clear the blockage.

More than 90 percent of the time, interventional radiologists can reopen blocked fallopian tubes and restore normal function.

Benefits of Fallopian Tube Recanalization

• Fallopian tube recanalization is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure with no incision needed

• Requires only local (rather than general) anesthesia

• An increased chance of pregnancy if this is the sole cause of infertility

• Does not cause scarring or pain, as some surgical techniques can

• Reduced risk of infection as compared to surgery

• Same day procedure, recover at home

Are you a Candidate for Fallopian Tube Recanalization?

If you have been diagnosed with blockages in your fallopian tube and/or have a history of infertility, endometriosis, or are suffering from painful intercourse then you may be a candidate for fallopian tube recanalization. Before you decide on your treatment speak to your IRCC team about all of the treatment options as well as all of your symptoms, including a history of pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, tubal or ovarian abscesses, and other pelvic conditions to determine if you are a candidate for fallopian tube recanalization.