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The fallopian tubes are highly complex and very delicate organs. Tubal function can be altered or damaged by infections and Endometriosis. Usually the first procedure that is done for this type of patient is a hysterosalpingogram (HSG). This essentially is a x-ray of the tubes and uterus after a dye has been injected through the cervix. This will tell a physician whether the tubes are blocked or not.

There are many functions within the tube that we still don't understand. Just because a tube is open doesn't mean it is functional. There are two types of treatment commonly associated with Tubal Disease. They are tubal surgery and IVF (in vitro fertilization). Historically, it was a judgement call as to which therapy provided the best option. Currently, it depends on what the patient wants and the patient's age.

If a patient wants to get pregnant and time is of the essence, then usually IVF is recommended since pregnancy rates are very high. If a patient just wants restoration of function in the fallopian tubes, then tubal surgery is performed. Tubal surgery can be successful for pregnancy, especially if the patient is patient enough, although generally pregnancy rates are low and range from 0% to 40%, depending on the severity of the tubal damage.

For many, IVF has become the treatment of choice. Usually one IVF cycle has approximately the same pregnancy rate as one year of trying after tubal surgery.