From the RSNA refresher courses - A review of selective salpingography andFallopian tube catheterization

Use of selective salpingography and fallopian tube recanalization has revol utionized the diagnosis and treatment of infertility. Selective salpingogra phy, a diagnostic procedure in which the fallopian tube is directly opacifi ed through a catheter placed in the tubal ostium, has been used since the l ate 1980s to differentiate spasm from true obstruction and to clarify discr epant findings from other tests. In fallopian tube recanalization, a cathet er and guide wire system is used to clear proximal tubal obstructions. The recanalization procedure is simple for interventional radiologists to perfo rm and is successfully completed in most patients (71%-92%). Pregnancy rate s after the procedure have been variable, with an average rate of 30%. The combination of selective salpingography with fallopian tube recanalization has improved the overall management of infertility caused by tubal obstruct ion. The same catheterization technique used in fallopian tube recanalizati on is currently being explored for use in tubal sterilization.