Blocked fallopian tubes can be a cause of infertility for many females. Fallopian tube recanalization can help remove mucus or debris that is blocking one or both fallopian tubes. If the procedure is successful, the estimated rates of conception is approximately 33 percent.
During the 30 minute procedure, interventional radiologists catheter is passed into the cervix to the Fallopian tube and the blockage is cleared. Contrast dye is then injected to ensure that there is no leak from the fallopian tube.
Women who have active uterine bleeding, active pelvic infections, have had recent surgery or are currently pregnant are not candidates for this procedure. Because the fallopian tubes are used during ovulation, physicians recommend that this procedure be performed between days six and 11 of the menstrual cycle, which is after a women’s period, but prior to ovulation.
For a small number of patients, the fallopian tubes become re-blocked (occluded) and they require an additional procedure six to 12 months later.