Tubal reanastomosis is the medical term for tubal reversal. A woman who has had a previous tubal ligation by clips, rings, or fulguration may be a candidate for a tubal reversal.
In this procedure an incision is made into the abdomen to gain access to the fallopian tubes. The ends of the fallopian tubes are then incised to expose the lumen, or opening of the tube. The two lumens of the tube are then carefully reattached under the microscope.
Once the tubes themselves are reattached, the outer covering, or serosa, of the tubes are brought together over the top of the inner portion of the tube. Colored dye is then used to test the repair and patency of the fallopian tube.
Pregnancy rates with reanastomosis procedures are not discussed on a per-cycle basis as are controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancy rates. Overall approximately 75 percent of women will be able to conceive following a successful reanastomosis.
Peak pregnancy rates occur within several months following tubal reversal procedures. An Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) may be used six months or more after a reanastomosis to test the tubes to be sure they are still open.
Duke University offers tubal reanastomosis procedures in our outpatient surgery center. Patients can recover overnight under nursing care without being admitted to the hospital.
This allows for a significant reduction in cost while maintaining the safety of trained observation following the procedure. The beautifully decorated facility offers state-of-the-art equipment for microsurgery as well as almost all outpatient procedures performed by our division.
If you would like to discuss your options for tubal reanastomosis or would like to compare reanastomosis to IVF please contact the appointments office to schedule a meeting with one of our physicians.
We can answer any questions you may have about your individual situation and help you decide what your best option may be. If possible, bring copies of operative reports, pathology reports, or any HSG done after the tubal procedure. We can assist you in obtaining these documents if you are uncertain how to obtain them.
