Infertility (Fallopian Tube Recanalization)

A minimally invasive procedure to diagnose and treat fallopian tube blockage

Fallopian tube recanalization (FTR), also known as selective salpingography, is a state-of-the-art, nonsurgical procedure to diagnose and treat blockages in the fallopian tubes. Performed by interventional radiologists at Inova Alexandria and Inova Mount Vernon hospitals, the technique is highly successful in resolving a wide range of fertility problems.

FTR is as simple as a routine pelvic exam, requires no incision or anesthesia, and usually lasts less than an hour. Physicians place a catheter in the uterus and inject X-ray dye to see an image of the uterine cavity. If a blockage is detected, another catheter is threaded into the fallopian tube to open it. Patients may experience mild, menstrual-like cramps immediately following the procedure, and most are able to return to their normal activities the next day.

Although it is considered a low-risk procedure for the majority of patients, FTR does slightly increase a woman’s chances of ectopic pregnancy. In addition, because it involves a very small dose of radiation to the ovaries, FTR is performed during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle to avoid any risk of fetal malformation. No drugs are involved in the procedure, but patients are prescribed a short course of antibiotics afterwards to prevent infection.

Candidates for FTR include women with a history of infertility (especially those over the age of 35), women with endometriosis, or those suffering pain with intercourse. Women with prior pelvic inflammatory disease, tubal or ovarian abscesses and other pelvic conditions should not have FTR.

Treatment Locations:

Advanced Interventional Vein and Vascular Center
4001 Prince William Parkway, Suite 302
Woodbridge, VA  22193
Appointment Scheduling: (703) 824-3228
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Inova Alexandria Hospital
Department of Interventional Radiology
4320 Seminary Road
Alexandria, VA 22304
To schedule a consultation, call 703-504-7950
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Inova Mount Vernon Hospital
Department of Interventional Radiology
2501 Parker’s Lane
Alexandria, VA 22306
Appointment Scheduling: 703.664.7175
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