Salpingoscopy. A method for direct examination of the fallopian tube

Abstract

Using flexible endoscopes 0.6-2.3 mm in diameter, direct tubal endoscopy was performed on human uteri and fallopian tubes ex vivo. Fourteen studies were performed both transcervically using the operating channel of a hysteroscope and transtubally via the fimbriae of the Fallopian tube. Different anatomic segments of the fallopian tube were readily identified, as was a possible tubal "sphincter" not previously described. This technique holds great promise for the evaluation and potential treatment of intratubal pathology in the gynecologist's office.