Falloposcopy (occasionally also falloscopy) is the inspection of the fallopian tubes through a micro- endoscope. The falloposcope is inserted into the tube through its opening in the uterus at the proximal tubal opening via the uterotubal junction; technically it could also be inserted at the time of abdominal surgery or laparoscopy via the distal fimbriated end.
A distinction is sometimes made between falloposcopy and salpingoscopy (with salpingoscopy being laparoscopic.) In some contexts the terms are equated.
Indications
Falloposcopy has been primarily used in diagnosis and management of tubal infertility, however, it is generally not considered part of the routine work-up for infertility. Once the ostium is identified the falloposcope can be inserted through the operative channel of the hysteroscope and advanced. With the LEC system the balloon catheter is advanced into the uterine horn, and then, under endoscopic vision the endoscope is advanced into the tube as the balloon catheter unfurls. Findings can be projected on a video system.
Findings and interventions
The typical method of tubal evaluation, hysterosalpingography, has shortcomings in terms of false negative and false positive results. Extensive tubal obstruction, however, cannot be overcome by falloposcopy and would require tubal surgery or in vitro fertilization (IVF) to be overcome to achieve a pregnancy. Problems were encountered in the ability to enter the tubes, and, even when tubes were cannulated, light reflexions or "white out" from healthy tissue as well as adhesions turned out to be a major problem.