When the tube is blocked at it's end (infundibulum), it can trap fluid, and is called a hydrosalpinx, which can cause a chronic inflammation. The tube is non functional and, in additon, toxic substances created by the inflammation may obstruct the implantation of the embryo when it is transfered into the uterus during IVF procedures.

Therefore, surgical treatment of hydrosalpinx is important and involves either opening the blocked end where possible or removing the fallopian tube in more serious cases.