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What Is a Tubal Occlusion?

A tubal occlusion is a blockage of one of the fallopian tubes. The female reproductive system depends on the fallopian tubes to allow the passage of an egg from the ovaries to the uterus, where sperm fertilizes the egg. Once fertilization occurs, the egg is an embryo and it implants into the uterus. Without properly functioning fallopian tubes, conception and pregnancy are not possible. Tubal occlusion is a very common problem.

  1. Types

    • The two types of tubal blockage are proximal tubal blockage and distal tubal blockage. Proximal blockage usually results from pelvic infection, salpingitis isthmica nodosa (SIN), endometriosis or mucus plugs. Distal blockage results from pelvic inflammation due to infection or endometriosis.

    Identification

    • The two main tests used to diagnose tubal occlusion are hysterosalpingogram (HSG) and diagnostic laparoscopy. HSG tests involve the doctor injecting dye into the uterus and then taking a series of x-rays. The dye is visible on x-ray, and if tube blockage exists, the dye stops at the blockage instead of continuing past the end of the tube. Diagnostic laparoscopy is an outpatient procedure where a small instrument with a camera into the abdomen via the navel. This allows doctors to evaluate the outer part of the tubes for anything wrapped around or intersecting with the tubes.

    Symptoms

    • Infertility is often the only sign of tubal occlusion. Many women fail to conceive a child, and undergo fertility testing that reveals tubal blockage. A small number of women may experience lower abdominal pain.

    Benefits

    • Some women use tubal occlusion as their form of birth control. Both tubal ligation and the Essure procedure are intentional tubal occlusion for the purpose of permanent birth control. Tubal ligation, also known as tying the tubes, involves tying off or burning the ends of the fallopian tubes closed. The Essure procedure consists of metal springs inserted into the fallopian tubes that stimulate tissue growth to close off the fallopian tubes.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Depending on the type of occlusion, solutions include using HSG to loosen the block, surgically removing the block or using in vitro fertilization (IVF) to implant the eggs in the uterus.

    Considerations

    • Tubal occlusions aren't always reversible. For women who wish to conceive a child after a tubal occlusion, doctors must consider their special circumstances. Sometimes the removal of an object causing an occlusion can cause damage to the fallopian tube, resulting in permanent and irreversible occlusion by tissue.

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