How It Works

Tubal blockages can be treated with a balloon or a wire instead of a laser. This treatment does not cause scar tissue and is preferable for that reason. In balloon tuboplasty, a tiny thin wire is inserted through the vagina, cervix, uterus and into the blocked tube. A balloon attached to the end of the wire is inflated when it reaches the affected site to clear out the blockage.

Some clinics are finding that removing the blockage doesn’t necessarily solve the fertility problem. Some women have the surgery only to find that they are still having trouble conceiving.

Back to top

Risks/Side Effects

There are risks and side effects associated with balloon tuboplasty, and they will vary if coupled with other procedures such as laparoscopy. This is an outpatient procedure that typically includes intravenous sedation or a paracervical block, although a general anesthetic  may be used if it is performed at the same time as diagnostic laparoscopy. As such, it carries the usual risks of surgery that includes anesthetic. It may also involve the use a fluoroscope, which means that the body is exposed to X-rays during the procedure. Pinpoint perforations of the vagina, cervix, uterus or fallopian tube are possible with this procedure as the wire passes through these structures. Your healthcare provider will discuss important safety information with you about this procedure.

Back to top