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Tubal Cytology of the Fallopian Tube as a Promising Tool for Ovarian Cancer Early Detection
Published on: July 25, 2017
Fallopian tube recanalization in an unrestricted patient population
D M Hovsepian1, J Bonn, D J Eschelman
1Division of Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pa.
Purpose:
To review the effectiveness of fallopian tube recanalization (FTR) when performed without restriction based on history or tubal condition.
Materials And Methods:
From October 1989 to July 1992 in 37 consecutive women, aged 22-44 years (mean, 35 years), 42 FTRs were performed (five patients each underwent two FTRs). Water-soluble contrast material and selective ostial salpingography and/or microcatheter technique were used exclusively. Eighty tubes were evaluated, since four patients had previously undergone unilateral salpingectomy. Sixty-three tubes (79%) were occluded at the outset of the procedure.
Results:
Complete recanalization was achieved in 45 of 63 (71%) occlusions. Adhesions were present in 25 of 80 (31%) tubes, salpingitis isthmica nodosa in 12 (15%), and hydrosalpinx in nine (11%). The 42 procedures resulted in 14 (33%) conceptions, nine (64%) of which involved pathologic tubes. Eleven intrauterine pregnancies resulted in five spontaneous first-trimester abortions, five full-term deliveries, and one continuing pregnancy.
Conclusion:
Favorable conception and live birth rates can be achieved with FTR, despite a high prevalence of tubal disease.
