Fallopian Tubal Recanalisation (FTR)

It is a special procedure to unblock a fallopian tube by using fluid injected through the tubes or by using a fine wire inserted through a small plastic tube.

The procedure is done under real-time X-ray visualisation.

What should I expect during FTR?

• Before the procedure, please empty your bladder and change into the hospital gown.
• The nurse will take you into the procedure room, where you will lie on the couch throughout the examination with your legs apart (similar to when a pap smear is done). The vulva and vagina are then cleansed with antiseptic solution to avoid introducing bacteria into your genital track.
• You will be lightly sedated (made slightly drowsy with medication) during the procedure.
• Local anaesthetic will be sprayed onto the cervix.
• An introducer will then be placed at the cervix, and fluid injected to outline the uterus and confirm fallopian tube blockage by X-ray imaging.
• To clear the blockage, more fluid is then injected through tiny tubes (about the size of a pen tip) inserted into the opening of the affected fallopian tube.
  
  

If the fluid is unable to clear the blockage, then a finer tube is used to guide a very fine wire into the fallopian tube. The wire opens the fallopian tube and usually clears the blockage.

How long will the procedure last?
The procedure usually takes approximately 30 minutes to one hour to complete. A longer time may be needed in some cases, depending on the degree of blockage and structure of the fallopian tubes.

How long will I be in the hospital on that day?
Please be prepared to spend about four to six hours in the hospital on the day of the procedure. You will need to arrive 30 minutes before the procedure for registration and preparation. After the procedure, we will observe you for up to four hours before you are discharged.

Do I need to be hospitalised?
This is an outpatient procedure. Hospitalisation is generally not required. However, as you will be sedated, please arrange for an adult to accompany you home.

If you are admitted to the hospital on the appointment day, please inform the ward staff to contact the nurse in the Angiography Suite about your procedure.

Expected outcomes
The technical success rate of clearing a blocked fallopian tube ranges between 80% and 90%. According to the published literature, 30% to 40% of these patients go on to have a successful pregnancy.

Potential complications
These are rare and self-resolving. Tubal perforation is reported in 2% of FTR patients. Ectopic pregnancy rate is estimated at 3%. Therefore, you are advised to see your Gynaecologist as soon as you suspect you are pregnant. An ultrasound scan may be performed to confirm that the baby is growing in the womb.

Radiation dose
The dose you will receive is very small and well within the norms for women of reproductive age. Hence, there are no expected side effects from the radiation.

Booking your FTR appointment: Please contact us early
On the first day of your menses, please contact the nurse in the Angiography Suite at +65 6394 8260/+65 6394 8264 or send a fax to +65 6394 8730. If the first day falls on a weekend or public holiday, please call us on the next working day.

The Angiography Suite is open from 8:00am to 5.30 pm, Monday to Friday.

1. Your appointment will be scheduled only after your menses for the cycle ends and before day 14. The days that you are suitable to go through FTR are restricted by your menstruation cycle. Please contact us early to book the appointment.
2. If you are still bleeding or spotting the day before the appointment, please call the Angiography Suite to reschedule the appointment.
3. Appointments are made subject to the availability of procedure slots and with priority given to emergencies or life-threatening cases
   
   

Important points to note:

• As you will be sedated, do not take food six hours before your appointment time.
• Please arrange for an adult to accompany you home.
• If you are allergic to medication, suffer from asthma or diabetes mellitus, please inform us upon making your appointment.
• If you suspect that you are pregnant, please inform the doctor or radiographer.
• If you have heart problems, please inform your gynaecologist and the angiography staff.
• Please do not carry any valuables (eg. jewellery or excessive cash) with you during your appointment.
• Please bring the FTR request form (Request for Radiological Investigation) from your doctor for the appointment. We need the form to begin the examination.
• Please arrive 30 minutes before the estimated appointment time to register and change. A new appointment may have to be made if you are late.
• If you are unable to keep to the appointment, please inform us early. To get a new appointment, please contact the Angiography Suite nurse:
  
  Tel: 6394 8260 / 6394 8243
  Fax: 6394 8730
  
  Operating hours:
  8.00am to 5.30pm (Monday to Friday)