Fallopian Tube Recanalization

In this episode, interventional radiologist Dr. Renato Abu Hana and our host Dr. Chris Beck discuss fallopian tube recanalization procedure and patient counseling.

Tubal occlusion is one of the leading causes of infertility, and can be diagnosed with a hysterosalpingogram (HSG), a procedure that uses X-ray to check for blockages. Blockages can be cured by subsequent selective salpingography. Since the HSG can be a sensitive gynecologic examination with little to no sedation, Dr. Hana shares advice on how to explain the procedure to patients and make them feel more comfortable during the exam.

Dr. Hana describes his HSG procedure to us. He notes that the initial speculum insertion can be difficult because of differences in cervical anatomy. He also discusses patient positioning, different tool sets, and his method of injection. To address complications and risks, Dr. Hana recommends prescribing antibiotics to prevent post-procedural infection. Additionally, he emphasizes the need to minimize radiation exposure as much as possible in a patient who is trying to become pregnant.

Finally, we highlight the benefits of fallopian tube recanalization, which include low risk of complications, potentially large impacts on the patients’ ability to conceive, and medical cost savings (when used as an alternative to in vitro fertilization).