Posted by Jessica R. Brown, MD on July 18, 19100 at 19:54:29:
In Reply to: Drs: Questions about Hyrdosalphinx posted by Linda on July 18, 19100 at 09:53:43:
Dear Linda: There are many studies showing decreased implantation and pregnancy rates in women with a hydrosalpinx, as well as studies showing that hydrosalpynx fluid may be embryotoxic. However, many women do get pregnant with IVF despite the presence of a hydrosalpynx. While hormones may sometimes affect the amount of fluid within the tube this should not be a concern. Some studies suggest that the hydrosalpinx that is large (and therefore visible on sonogram) may have a more detrimental effect than a small one. Studies do show improved IVF pregnancy rates after laparoscopic surgical treatment of a hydrosalpinx: either salpingectomy (removal of tube), salpingostomy (reopening the tube- although it can always re-close) or just cauterizing the part of the tube near the uterus so the fluid cannot leak back. If a patient was in a position to do a second cycle if her first was unsuccessful I would generally recommend proceeding straight to IVF in order to perhaps avoid the need for surgery. I would certainly offer surgery to someone who had failed a cycle. You obviously need to review your whole situation with your physician so you can do whats best for you. Good luck!
: What are the ramifications of a small (tiny) hydro when doing IVF? Is it likely to interfere with implantation, and or could it cause a miscarriage? Are they likely to increase in size if one is pregnant, or if one is taking alot of estrogen and progesterone? What is the best treatment for this? Thank you very much.