Transcervical Catheterization of the Fallopian Tubes (TCFT)

By RRM Academy Reviewed by Dr. Naomi Whittaker, MD, Board-Certified OBGYN, MIGS, NFPMC, FCI Updated May 14, 2026

Transcervical catheterization of the fallopian tubes (TCFT) is a procedure that advances a specialized catheter-guidewire system through the cervix and uterine cavity to the uterotubal junction, under fluoroscopic guidance, to diagnose and clear partial proximal tubal occlusion. It is performed in conjunction with selective salpingography and intratubal pressure measurement, which together distinguish true mechanical obstruction from spasm or contrast artifact.¹

Proximal tubal occlusion identified on standard HSG is frequently over-diagnosed. Spasm, debris, and incomplete contrast filling produce false-positive blocks. TCFT does not simply confirm or deny patency: it measures tubal resistance before and after catheterization. If pressure normalizes after the procedure, a true partial obstruction was present and cleared. If pressure remains elevated, the obstruction is complete and requires further surgical evaluation.

Published data show that over 75% of partially obstructed tubes return to normal patency following catheterization.¹ The procedure is timed to the proliferative phase of the cycle. For couples with proximal tubal factor infertility, TCFT restores the anatomical pathway for natural conception without surgical intervention. Where obstruction is complete rather than partial, TCFT findings inform the decision for surgical recanalization via fallopian tube recanalization.²

TCFT is distinct from generic tubal cannulation techniques in its integration of pressure monitoring throughout the procedure. That measurement component converts a binary open-or-closed assessment into graded patency data, making it a diagnostic procedure as well as a therapeutic one. The cycle-timed execution aligns the procedure with the window of maximal tubal accessibility and reproducible pressure baselines.

This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult an RRM clinician or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.