Opening Of Fallopian Tubal Block

Opening of Fallopian Tubal Block

The fallopian tubes are two narrow tubes that carry mature eggs from the ovaries to the uterus, and are very important in the fertilization process. Fertilization usually takes place as the egg moves along these tubes to the uterus. But in case of a blocked fallopian tube, the egg is unable to move to the uterus, thus preventing fertilization and consequently causing infertility. Both unilateral (one tube) and bilateral (two tubes) blockages have a significant effect on fertility, with obstruction of the tubes being one of the most common causes of female infertility, occurring in about 40% of cases.

Causes of Blocked Fallopian Tubes

There are various factors that may cause blockage of the tubes, including:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
• Endometriosis
• Ruptured Appendix
• Prior abdominal surgery

History of Ectopic Pregnancy

• Previous Fallopian Tube Surgery or Associated Condition
• History of Abortion, Miscarriage, or Uterine Infection
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), Either Past or Present

Symptoms of Tubal Blockage

Symptoms of obstructed fallopian tubes can be different and in certain cases may not manifest immediately. The most common indicators are:

• Painful Menstruation
• Pain on Sexual Intercourse or on Urination
• Lower Pelvic Pain
• Vaginal Discharge

One needs to recognize the fact that while some women have blocked fallopian tubes and may fail to conceive as expected, it is still possible for them to continue ovulating.

Treatment Procedures for Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Single Obstruction of one Tubal Section

When there is a single fallopian tube blockage, the treatment is usually simpler. Fertility doctors tend to prescribe medicines that stimulate ovulation to increase the likelihood of conception via the unobstructed tube.

Bilateral Tubal Blockage

When both fallopian tubes are occluded, fertility drugs by themselves are not enough. Laparoscopic surgery is the best option in this instance. This surgery will either remove the blockage or shave off the tissue which is responsible for the blockage. The success rate of this surgery is greater in younger females.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

IVF is the most successful therapy for blocked fallopian tubes and is generally the last option for women to have a baby despite this. With IVF, fertilization takes place outside the body and avoids the use of the fallopian tubes altogether, thus providing a valid solution for people with tubal infertility.

Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment

In order for a pregnancy to occur, the ovary needs to release an egg into the fallopian tube, where it can survive for about 24 hours. Fertilization will occur if the egg meets a sperm during this period. The egg after fertilization stays in the fallopian tube for three to four days before moving on to the uterus, where it implants into the uterine lining and grows until birth.

But in other instances, the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tube or, less often, elsewhere in the abdominal cavity. Such a pregnancy is referred to as an ectopic pregnancy, which cannot develop normally and must be treated medically right away.

Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancies usually happen in the early weeks of conception, before a woman knows she is pregnant. Early symptoms can be:

• Light bleeding and pelvic cramping
• Nausea and vomiting that are painful
• Crampy pain in the abdome
• One-sided pain in the body
• Weakness or dizziness
• Pain in the shoulder, neck, or rectum

If untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can rupture the fallopian tube, causing extreme pain and bleeding inside. Immediately go to the hospital if you notice heavy bleeding from the vagina, dizziness, fainting, or sharp chest pain.

Causes and Risk Factors

Although the precise reason for an ectopic pregnancy is usually not known, a scarred or blocked fallopian tube may hinder the fertilized egg from entering the uterus, resulting in incorrect implantation. A number of factors may contribute to an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy, such as:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STIs)
• Past pelvic surgery resulting in scarring

A history of ectopic pregnancy

• A failed tubal ligation or reversal of tubal ligation
• Use of fertility drugs or therapies like in vitro fertilization (IVF)
• Pregnancy with an intrauterine device (IUD) in place

Diagnosis of Ectopic Pregnancy

To diagnose an ectopic pregnancy, a healthcare professional may conduct the following tests:

• Pregnancy test – To establish pregnancy
• Pelvic examination – To identify abnormal tenderness or masses
• Ultrasound imaging – To see the uterus and fallopian tubes and establish the site of the pregnancy After an ectopic pregnancy is diagnosed, the treatment plan will be explained depending on the patient's medical status and future reproductive intentions.

Treatment Options

Because a fertilized egg can't live outside the uterus, it must be removed to avoid serious complications. The following treatment options are available:

Medication

If the fallopian tube isn't ruptured and the pregnancy is in its beginning stages, methotrexate (Trexall) is injected. This drug halts cell growth so the body will naturally absorb the tissue. Methotrexate works in the majority of ectopic pregnancies that are in early stages.

Surgical Intervention

If medication cannot be used, or if the fallopian tube is damaged, then surgery will have to be performed. Laparoscopy is the most frequently used procedure, whereby minor cuts are made in the abdomen, and a flexible, thin device (laparoscope) is inserted to drain the ectopic pregnancy. When the fallopian tube is badly damaged, removal might also have to be done.

For more severe cases, such as those involving heavy internal bleeding or a ruptured fallopian tube, emergency surgery (laparotomy) is done with a larger incision.

Recovery and Future Pregnancy

Patients who have a laparoscopic procedure can typically go home the same day and return to normal activities within 24 hours, with complete recovery within several days or four weeks, depending on an individual's healing.

Although an ectopic pregnancy can influence future fertility, most people continue to have a successful pregnancy. It is best to see a fertility specialist, especially if one of the fallopian tubes has been surgically removed. Physicians usually advise waiting three to six months before trying again. Having had an earlier ectopic pregnancy, though, raises the risk of another one occurring.

Dr. Kapil Kanade, a highly experienced laparoscopic surgeon from Maharashtra, has successfully conducted more than 450 ectopic pregnancy operations. With his skill in minimally invasive surgery, patients are provided with quality care, resulting in the best possible results.

For expert consultation and professional treatment, book an appointment with Dr. Kapil Kanade today

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