Description:
This procedure is used to investigate and treat subfertility in women.
One in six couples require investigation or treatment of subfertility. Conventional investigation of subfertility in women often includes an examination of the fallopian tubes using hysterosalpingography (an X-ray test) or laparoscopy with dye injection to check the patency of the Fallopian tubes. More rarely salpingoscopy is performed. This is the inspection of the inside of the fallopian tubes from the outer fimbrial end, at laparoscopy or laparotomy.
Falloposcopy is a technique that allows direct inspection of the inside of the fallopian tubes. The fallopian tubes are approached through the cervix and uterus.
There are two main types of falloposcope: coaxial and linear everting catheter. The coaxial technique involves inserting a narrow catheter over a guidewire through the cervix and uterine cavity into the fallopian tubes. The surgeon then passes a flexible endoscope through the catheter. Coaxial falloposcopy is usually carried out under local anaesthetic and mild sedation.
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