WHAT IS FTR?
Fallopian Tube Recanalization
Fallopian Tube Recanalization (FTR) is conducted to unblock fallopian tubes- a cause of infertility for many females. At USA Vascular Centers our physicians are trained in this procedure, which is a vast improvement over the microsurgery that was previously used, usually with poor results. These procedures are most usually done on an outpatient basis, and our interventional radiologists conduct them in our clinics. The FTR procedure takes approximately 30 minutes and patients are usually discharged after a few hours. Here is some important information you should know about the FTR procedure, and the precision with which we conduct ours at USA Vascular Centers.
WHY IS FTR NECESSARY?
Blockages in fallopian tubes are one cause of infertility. These tubes are very, very fine and connect the ovaries to the uterus. In order for an egg to be fertilized, it must travel from the ovary, through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. A blockage of the fallopian tube prevents this from happening and therefore causes infertility.
The FTR procedure enables the doctor to find the blockage and remove it. Many times the blockage is caused by mucus or other “debris” and can be successfully cleared by the recanalization. If the blockage is caused by fibroids, the FTR procedure does not work. Research finds a range of pregnancy rates in women who undergo an FTR procedure, from a low of 20% to a high of 40%. In some women, the fallopian tubes can become blocked again. When this happens, another FTR procedure can be conducted in 6 to 12 months.
FTR PROCEDURE
What Is The FTR Procedure Like?
Before the recanalization procedure, you will be given a sedative so that you are comfortable and relaxed. When the procedure begins, contrast dye is inserted into the fallopian tube to locate the blockage. Then our doctors use advanced ultrasound equipment to guide them to the precise area of the fallopian tubes that need to be treated. A catheter is passed through the cervix into the fallopian tube. When the doctor gets to the blockage, a small wire is used to open it up. Then contrast dye is injected into the tube to make sure there is no leakage.
FAQs
Common FTR Questions
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON FTR PLEASE CONTACT US
To find out more about having your FTR procedure done at USA Vascular Centers please contact us
