Treatment Options

Surgery may be indicated for some of the causes of infertility.  Most procedures can be done on an outpatient basis.

Ovarian Drilling. Some patients who do not ovulate regularly and have a condition called Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) may benefit from this procedure.  Through the laparoscope, multiple tiny “holes” are made in the ovaries (using electrocautery) which has been shown to increase subsequent ovulation.

Therapeutic (Operative) Hysteroscopy.  Hysteroscopy is an incision-free procedure where a telescope is passed through the cervix into the uterine cavity.  Hysteroscopy can be used to remove uterine polyps, fibroids, scar tissue and a septum (tissue dividing the uterus in two).

Therapeutic (Operative) Laparoscopy.  The laparoscope and other surgical devices are placed into the pelvic cavity through tiny incisions in the abdomen.  Among other things, laparoscopy can be used to remove scar tissue or endometriosis with electrocautery or laser.  Also, laparoscopy can occasionally be used to repair fallopian tubes that are blocked or damaged.

Laparotomy Microsurgery.  Operating through an incision in the pubic area, the surgeon looks through magnifying glasses or a microscope while removing or destroying scar tissue, endometriosis or repairing damaged fallopian tubes.

Falloposcopy. Obstructions, scarring and damage inside the fallopian tubes can be seen and often corrected with falloposcopy.  The procedure involves inserting a tiny camera-equipped catheter through the cervix and uterus into the fallopian tube.

Myomectomy. The surgical removal of fibroid tumors from the uterus, myomectomy can be done through abdominal incisions or through operative hysteroscopy.

Tubal Cunnulation. A minor procedure that is done through the vagina and cervix to potentially “unblock” the initial portion of the fallopian tubes.