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Fallopian tube recanalisation by guidewire

 
Guidance issued
 
Number: IPG71

Summary

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has issued full guidance to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on fallopian tube recanalisation by guidewire.

Description

Fallopian tube recanalisation by guidewire is a treatment for infertility caused by blocked fallopian tubes, especially if the blockage is close to the entrance to the uterus (proximal). It is carried out during the same treatment session as diagnostic salpingography and involves inserting a fine tube (catheter) past the obstruction in a fallopian tube. This, or the subsequent injection of radio-opaque dye, may clear the obstruction. If these strategies fail, a guidewire may be passed up into the fallopian tubes through the catheter, and manipulated to clear the obstruction.

Alternative radiological methods of clearing tubal obstruction including balloon tuboplasty, which involves inflating a small balloon within the tube. Tubal obstruction may also be treated surgically.

OPCS code:

Details

Arrangement:
Normal
Topic area:
Gynaecology, pregnancy and birth
Surgical procedures
Specialty:
Clinical radiology
General surgery
Obstetrics and gynaecology
Specialist advice has been sought from:
Date notified to NICE:
01 April 2002
Guidance issue date:
28 July 2004

Contact details:

Project manager (for general enquiries or comments)
(for general enquiries or comments)
Ben Doak
Contact Address:

Interventional Procedures Programme
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence
MidCity Place
71 High Holborn
London
WC1V 6NA

Links: