Chromopertubation


Chromopertubation is a method for the study of patency of fallopian tube in suspected infertility in women. It is currently one of the standard procedures in this field.

Procedure

As part of a laparoscopy, a blue dye solution is introduced into the uterine cavity. The dye solution flows through the fallopian tubes into the abdominal cavity and becomes visible on laparoscopy. If the fallopian tube fills with the dye solution, but does not drain, there is a distal occlusion of the fallopian tube. If a filling drains out, there may be a closure in a part of the fallopian tube close to the uterus, or a spasmodic reaction.

Advantages

Chromopertubation is the most accurate way to look at the organs and problems such as malformations of the uterus, adhesions, blocked fallopian tubes or endometriosis. Slight adhesions inside a fallopian tube can be resolved by the flow of dye solution. Other findings may also be treated as part of laparoscopy.

Disadvantages

Chromopertubation is done during laparoscopy, which requires general anesthesia. There is a risk of procedural complications, such as bleeding or abdominal injury.

Alternatives

Nowadays, hystero contrast sonography as an alternative to chromopertubation. This is done using transvaginal ultrasound, and therefore less invasive than chromopertubation. Using a contrast agent, the ultrasound image can be used to detect whether and how the contrast medium flows through the fallopian tubes.

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