Fallopian Tube Reconstruction Procedure
Women who are dealing with infertility have many options regarding their treatment. Assisted reproductive techniques, such as in vitro fertilization, provide solutions for common issues of infertility and make it possible to conceive a child. While these techniques have proven to be successful, some of Dr. Sonja Kristiansen’s patients choose to take a different approach. Surgical options for infertility aim to correct the source of fertility problems so that patients can conceive naturally. Surgical options are more invasive than other fertility treatments, but they may be the right option for certain patients. One surgical technique that can correct a common source of female infertility is fallopian tube reconstruction. Here we discuss the fallopian tube reconstruction procedure as offered at our Houston, TX, fertility center.
What to Expect During Treatment
Each fallopian tube reconstruction procedure is customized based on the patient’s unique needs. Though fallopian tube reconstruction can be a way to address a previous tubal ligation, this technique is generally performed to correct other sources of fallopian tube damage, such as that caused by endometriosis, a pelvic infection, or prior surgeries. During surgery, Dr. Kristiansen will make the necessary alterations to clear any blockages in the fallopian tubes. This creates a clear passage between the egg and the sperm, and allows a fertilized egg to successfully move into the uterus.
Fallopian tube reconstruction begins with the administration of anesthetic to ensure that the patient remains comfortable throughout the procedure. Once the anesthetic has taken effect, Dr. Kristiansen will make incisions along the abdomen to gain access to the fallopian tubes. Dr. Kristiansen uses laparoscopic and microsurgical techniques, which allow her to make small incisions that minimize the risks of the procedure, reduce the chance of further scarring in the fallopian tubes, and allow for a faster recovery time. After any blockages or imperfections have been corrected, the surgical incisions will be closed and the patient will be moved to recovery.
Recovery
Because Dr. Kristiansen uses laparoscopic and microsurgical techniques, recovery from fallopian tube reconstruction should be fairly quick and free of complications. The exact length of recovery time will vary from patient to patient and will depend largely on the specific alterations made during surgery. In general, patients are ready to resume their usual activities (with the exception of strenuous exercise) within about a week or two of their procedure.
Alternative Treatments
If a patient is not found to be an ideal candidate for fallopian tube reconstruction, or if the procedure is not a success, there are alternative treatments to explore. The best option for patients with damage in the fallopian tubes is likely to be in vitro fertilization (IVF). IVF is a multi-step treatment that bypasses the fallopian tubes altogether. After collecting a mature egg, it is fertilized in a laboratory and then placed directly in the uterus. IVF has proven highly successful for patients experiencing infertility related to damaged fallopian tubes.
Contact Us
If you are struggling with infertility, do not give up hope. Dr. Kristiansen offers a comprehensive range of fertility treatments that have helped countless people achieve their dream of parenthood. To learn more about these services and how they can benefit you, contact us at your earliest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you!
