Transcervical fallopian tube catheterization and recanalization for proximal tubal obstruction

To evaluate further the safety and efficacy of selective ostial salpingography combined with transcervical wire recanalization for the diagnosis and treatment of proximal tubal obstruction.

Prospective study.

Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Department of Radiology at Harbor-University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, a tertiary care academic institution.

Twenty-eight infertile patients diagnosed with proximal tubal obstruction by hysterosalpingogram (HSG) or by chromopertubation at laparoscopy (total of 46 obstructed tubes).

After antibiotic prophylaxis and IV analgesia a conventional HSG was performed. If proximal tubal obstruction was confirmed, selective salpingography was done under fluoroscopic guidance. If proximal tubal obstruction was still present, wire recanalization using a new prototype cannula was then performed. If recanalization was successful, contrast media was injected to confirm tubal patency.

Proximal tubal patency, complete tubal patency, pregnancies.

Eleven of 46 tubes (23.9%) were patent by HSG. Ostial salpingography of the remaining 35 tubes revealed 6 patent tubes (13%). Nine of the 29 obstructed tubes (31%) had successful wire recanalization, and 8 of these were patent distally. There were 4 intrauterine pregnancies (IUPs) and 1 ectopic pregnancy after recanalization and 2 IUPs after ostial salpingography.

Selective salpingography should be considered at the time of an HSG showing proximal tubal obstruction. If indicated, wire recanalization can also be attempted. Selective ostial salpingography combined with wire recanalization is a safe and effective procedure for the diagnosis and treatment of PTO.