Fertility Surgery (Tuboplasty)

Introduction

Surgeons perform fertility surgery, specifically tuboplasty, to repair or restore the function of the fallopian tubes. The fallopian tubes play a crucial role in in vitro conception as they allow the oocyte and spermatozoon to interact and enable the embryo to travel from the fallopian tube into the uterus. Obstructions, scarring, or damage to the fallopian tubes can cause infertility, and tuboplasty is one of the methods that can solve the underlying problems.

Tuboplasty is a highly safe procedure for female tubal obstruction in female infertility. 6) Due to advances in surgical techniques such as minimally invasive techniques, this operation is now a treatment of choice in the restoration of fertility in the female gender.

Surgeons perform tuboplasty (i.e., fallopian tube repair surgery) by clearing obstructions, restoring abnormal segments, or reconstructing the fallopian tubes to such an extent that they restore vascularity and function.To restore the highest possible physiological flow of eggs through the tubes and to allow physiological conception.

Common conditions treated with tuboplasty include: 

• Tubal Blockage: Caused by infections, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or endometriosis.
• Tubal Scarring: Resulting from previous surgeries or ectopic pregnancies.
• Hydrosalpinx: Fluid-filled fallopian tubes that impair fertility.
• Tubal Adhesions: Bands of scar tissue restricting tube movement.

Why is Fertility Surgery (Tuboplasty) Needed?

Tuboplasty is recommended for women who:

• Experience Infertility: Blockage or injury of the fallopian tubes causing infertility.
• Have a History of Pelvic Infections: Tubal damage from conditions like PID.
• Had an Ectopic Pregnancy: Ectopic pregnancy complicating one or both tubes may lead to injury of one or both tubes.
• Want to Avoid IVF: Offers a natural alternative model for women who want to not use assisted reproductive technologies.
• Have Tubal Sterilization Reversal: Women who previously underwent tubal ligation and wish to conceive again.

Types of Tuboplasty Procedures

• Laparoscopic Tuboplasty: A fairly minimally invasive arthroscopic technique of placement and repair of stents with a laparoscope.
• Microsurgical Tuboplasty: Advances a premium microscope system that allows for the precision repair of tiny fallopian tubes.
• Fimbrioplasty: Fimbrial reconstruction (the reconstruction of finger-like end-structures of the fallopian tubes) to restore their ability to scoop the eggs.
• Salpingectomy: The “encasement” type of tube removal to enhance IVF success rates in patients with unsalvageable tubes.
• Tubal Reanastomosis: Reconnecting severed tubes for women seeking tubal ligation reversal.

Procedure Steps

1. Pre-Surgery Evaluation:

• Imaging Tests: Hysterosalpingography (HSG) or a saline sonogram is performed to assess the status of the fallopian tubes.
• Blood Tests: Evaluate overall health and hormone levels.
• Medical History: Includes previous infections, surgeries, and fertility treatments.

2. Anesthesia:

• General anesthesia is typically administered for patient comfort.

3. Surgical Process:

• Incisions:
  • Small incisions are created in the anterior abdomen to insert laparoscopic instruments.
• Tubal Repair:

• • Obstacles are cleared, the scar is excisional, or pathological segments are reconfigured.
  • In fimbrioplasty, the inflexible fimbriae are adapted to optimize oocyte capture.

• Salpingectomy (if needed): 

• • Severely destroyed tubes are debulked when they are blocking natural conception or assisted reproduction technique(ART) achievement.

4. Closure:

• Incisions are sutured/applied with surgical glue or closed with sutures, and dressings are applied.

5. Post-Surgery Monitoring:

• The patient is observed for pain, bleeding, and complications.

Benefits of Fertility Surgery (Tuboplasty)

• Restores Natural Fertility: Enables women to conceive without assisted reproductive technologies.
• Improves Tube Functionality: Raises the tubes’ ability to transport gametes (eggs and sperm).
• Cost-Effective: Proposes a single-time solution to IVF-associated recurring costs.
• Minimally Invasive Options: Laparoscopic techniques offer quicker recovery and minimal scarring.
• Boosts Confidence: Gives women the opportunity to achieve pregnancy naturally.

Cost of Fertility Surgery (Tuboplasty)

• United States: $8,000 – $15,000 
• United Kingdom: $6,000 – $12,000 
• Thailand: $3,500 – $8,000 
• India: $2,500 – $6,000 

Best Hospitals in India for Fertility Surgery (Tuboplasty)

India offers world-class facilities for fertility surgeries, including:

Metro Hospital Faridabad: 

• Renowned for advanced laparoscopic and microsurgical techniques.
• Known for its skilled fertility specialists and state-of-the-art equipment.

Fortis Healthcare (Delhi): 

• Offers comprehensive fertility solutions with high success rates.
• Provides personalized treatment plans for tubal infertility.

Max Healthcare (Delhi): 

• Specializes in minimally invasive fertility surgeries and advanced diagnostics.
• Known for its patient-centric approach and cutting-edge technology.

Risks and Complications

While tuboplasty is generally safe, potential risks include:

• Infection: Rare but preventable with proper care.
• Bleeding: Minimal with skilled surgical techniques.
• Scarring: This may reduce tubal function in some cases.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: Slightly increased risk due to scar tissue formation.
• Recurrence of Blockage: Tubes may become blocked again over time.

Recovery

Immediate Recovery:

• Hospital Stay: The vast majority of laparoscopic procedures are outpatient and result in patients being able to return home that day.
• First Week: Mild pain, bloating, or spotting is common. Pain relief and rest are essential.

Long-Term Recovery:

• 2-4 Weeks: Most women resume normal activities and work.
• 3-6 Months: The fertility assessment process begins to be evaluated for the usefulness of the method.
• Follow-Up Care: Regular appointments ensure proper healing and check for complications.