Why It Is Done

Things such as obstructions, scar formation and abnormalities of the inner lining can be identified during this procedure. If there is damage, the healthcare provider may be able to repair the tubes via tuboplasty, thus allowing fertilization to occur. If falloposcopy does not remove the obstruction, or if mucosal abnormalities are seen after the tube is cleared, you doctor may decide that in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a suitable option since the IVF procedure bypasses the fallopian tubes.

How It Is Done

Falloposcopy may be done with local anesthesia and mild sedation.

This procedure sends a catheter (a flexible tube) through the cervix, uterus and into the fallopian tube. Once the catheter is successfully inserted, a smaller, flexible fiber optic endoscope is inserted through the catheter. The camera attached to the end of the falloposcope transmits images of the inside of the tube to a TV monitor. The healthcare provider is then able to examine the images on the screen.

Risks

Risks associated with the procedure include infection and bleeding. Some healthcare providers will prescribe an antibiotic to help ward off infection. In some cases the fallopian tube can be punctured, however this is a rare occurrence and generally does not lead to injury. It is important to be sure that your surgeon is skilled at falloposcopy to insure that minimal trauma to the tubes will occur.