Tuboplasty is a fertility treatment that is performed on women to repair damaged fallopian tubes, or remove blockages. It is typically performed on women who suffer from endometriosis, have had an ectopic pregnancy, or have had previous abdominal surgery that has led to scarring.
It is an important surgical procedure as it can greatly increase the chances of a woman becoming pregnant or, in emergency situations, can save the woman's life.
A technique that is commonly used is 'balloon tuboplasty'. This involves using a balloon or wire which is inserted through the vagina and guided through the cervix and uterus until it reaches the fallopian tube. The balloon is then inflated, which clears the blockage.
The use of balloon tuboplasty is popular among surgeons as it leaves little scar tissue behind. This is an added benefit as scar tissue can also interfere with a woman's fertility.
There are other tuboplasty options available, and this includes laser treatment. However, this is not as desirable as balloon tuboplasty as the procedure is known to leave scar tissue.
Other techniques include microsurgery, where the technique is performed with a microscope; a laparoscopy, where a camera is used as part of the procedure; and electrocautery, where heat is used to destroy problematic tissue.