Fallopian tube occlusion – anatomical ex vivo studies in advance of preclinical in vivo models for future microstent-based therapeutic concept evaluation

Abstract

An unfulfilled pregnancy is often due to impaired patency of the female Fallopian tubes. To circumvent tubal obstruction, cost-intensive in vitro fertilisation (IVF) is currently indicated. The only therapeutic treatment concepts available are transvaginal tubal lavage/catheterization or laparoscopy with minimally invasive or complex surgical tubal reconstruction, which are associated with side effects. The development of new and cost-effective non- or minimally invasive therapeutic concepts that can restore the patency of the Fallopian tubes would be key in the treatment of female infertility and can fulfil the desire to have children. Therefore, in the present work, ex vivo anatomical studies are carried out on various laboratory mammals (pigs, rabbits, guinea pigs). Using these animal models, it was also evaluated whether a sensor-ureterorenoscope can be inserted through the whole female reproductive tract to the Fallopian tubes. This device will be used for endoscopically guided implantation of a novel tubal microstent prototype via its tailor-made delivery system into the isthmus region of the Fallopian tubes in upcoming studies. This work serves to identify an optimal species for a longitudinal animal study, in which the feasibility as well as the tissue reaction to the implant will be evaluated.

Keywords

• fallopian tube occlusion
• mammal oviduct
• female fertility enhancement
• biodegradable tubal microstent
• non-invasive isthmus dilatation