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HSG and Fallopian Tube Recanalization

Approximately 25% of women with infertility have some degree of tubal blockage. The doctors at Veritas Fertility and Surgery offer two tests to determine whether fallopian tubes are open and functioning normally. Each of these tests can be completed in about 10 minutes and each serves a slightly different purpose. The test that’s right for you will depend on prior testing as well as your medical and/or surgical history.

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): This is the most common tubal test and involves injecting an X-ray contrast fluid inside the uterus and watching how it travel through the tubes. During this procedure, our doctors use a small catheter to inject the contrast fluid and this allows him to see if either tube is blocked.

HSG and Fallopian Tube Recanalization at Veritas Fertility and Surgery

Additionally, the appearance of the tubes and/or the location of the blockage can give us very specific information which can help guide treatment decisions. In some cases, a tubal spasm can make it appear as if there is a tubal blockage even if there is not.

Selective salpingogram with fallopian tube recanalization (SS-FTR): This is an advanced type of HSG that allows for a more precise evaluation of the fallopian tubes. During this procedure, Dr. Puthoff or Dr. Yeung uses a specialized catheter system to assess each tube individually and differentiate between a true blockage or a tubal spasm. Additionally, if a blockage is found in either tube near the uterus or in the middle of the tube, the doctors at Veritas Fertility and Surgery can perform a fallopian tube recanalization to reopen the blocked tube with a small flexible wire.

Typically, patients experience mild cramping during an HSG or selective salpingogram. To minimize discomfort, we recommend taking 600mg of ibuprofen two hours before the procedure. If a selective salpingogram is performed, or if a patient has had more significant cramping with an HSG in the past, a local anesthetic can be used to help decrease the discomfort of the procedure.  Cramping or spotting may continue for a short time afterwards, but most patients can be expected to go about their normal day following the procedure.

An HSG is used primarily to determine if the fallopian tubes are open or blocked. If a tubal blockage is present, an HSG can usually identify the location of the blockage (near the uterus, in the middle of the tube, or at the end of the tube), which is important as each type of blockage has a different treatment. In some cases, a uterine anomaly (such as a uterine septum or bicornuate uterus) can also be found with an HSG.

A fallopian tube recanalization procedure can be used to reopen blocked tubes if the blockage is near the uterus (proximal tubal obstruction) or in the middle portion of the tube. If the end of tube is blocked, such as is seen with a hydrosalpinx, then another type of surgical procedure would be needed to open and repair the tube instead.

WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY

“Dr. Puthoff is amazing! He is compassionate, patient, and very intelligent. He seems to really care, and it feels like you’re in good hands. It is reassuring that he is so good at what he does and still allows you to make your own choices.”

“Dr. Yeung is one of the few doctors who truly listens and does not simply dismiss symptoms. When I go to see him, I know I will be taken seriously and treated with the utmost respect.”

“I am very blessed that the Lord brought Dr. Puthoff and his team into my life. His work and the treatment I received made it possible for us to have another child. That is a priceless joy and we couldn’t say thank you enough to Dr. Puthoff.”

“I would recommend Dr. Yeung to anyone who believes they have endometriosis. For years I was told I couldn’t possibly have endometriosis because I was too young. Dr. Yeung took the time to listen to my story and even prayed with me before surgery.”

“The friendly and welcoming attitude of Dr. Puthoff put me right at ease. He thoroughly explained the procedure and answered all of my questions. I felt extremely confident that he is the right surgeon for my procedure.”

“Dr. Yeung listens and understands you. He makes things easy to understand and supports your decision in your choice for care.”

“My husband and I were very pleased with how approachable and comforting Dr. Puthoff was. He took time to listen and to care. We never felt rushed. He gave us hope. That’s what we needed. Thank you Dr. Puthoff for what you do. Your job truly has a lasting impression and gift on your patients.”

“Because of my first visit and the attentive phone calls I have received since, I am confident I am in caring hands for my upcoming surgery. I feel extremely grateful to be getting such amazing care.”

“Dr. Yeung is incredibly knowledgeable and been such a tremendous help in my journey with endometriosis and infertility. Since surgery, my pain has decreased so much, and we are now taking the next steps to try to get pregnant naturally. I’m forever grateful for Dr. Yeung.”

“I always feel involved in my care. Dr. Puthoff has an excellent bedside manner and demonstrates a high level of professionalism.”