A salpingectomy is a surgical procedure in which one or both fallopian tubes are removed. It can be used as a method of contraception, in the case of tubal diseases or to prevent ovarian cancer.
What is a salpingectomy?
A salpingectomy is a surgical procedure in which one or both fallopian tubes are removed. The fallopian tubes are tubular structures located on either side of the uterus and play an essential role in reproduction. They are responsible for transporting eggs from the ovaries to the uterus, where fertilization can take place if a sperm is present. “Salpingectomy is above all a female sterilization method, specifies Dr. Jean-Claude Darmon, gynecologist. It concerns women who have made the choice to no longer have children and who wish a permanent method of contraception“. It is total in this case (both tubes are removed). This operation (which may be partial) is also offered in the event of tubal diseases (ectopic pregnancy, salpingitis) or increased risks of cancer, particularly of the ovary and tubes. A salpingectomy is performed by laparoscopy, under general anesthesia and on an outpatient basis.
What are the indications for a salpingectomy?
► “Total salpingectomy, that is to say the complete removal of both fallopian tubes, can be recommended to women who do not wish to have more children. It is an effective, but permanent, contraceptive option“, replies the doctor. It is important to note that the decision to undergo total salpingectomy is complex and depends on many factors, including the individual medical situation, the patient’s fertility goals, and in-depth discussion with the surgeon. “This intervention is permanent and causes desired infertilityso it is essential to fully understand the implications before making a decision.”
► Since law 2001-588 of July 4, 2001, a reflection period of four months is mandatory between the formulation of the sterilization request, the information received by the patient and the surgical procedure. “Likewise, the doctor can assert his conscience clause and not operate on his patient if he judges the act to be unconsidered.”
► A unilateral salpingectomy, that is to say the removal of a single fallopian tube, may be indicated in different medical situations. “One of the most common indications for unilateral salpingectomy is treatment of ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. If this condition is not detected early and poses a danger to the woman’s life or the tube is severely damaged, a unilateral salpingectomy may be necessary to remove the affected tube“. It is also offered on a single fallopian tube in case of tumors, cysts, severe infection of the tube (salpingitis). “As a preventive measure in women with high risk of tubal or ovarian cancer, it is made on both sides.
Tubal removal, also called salpingectomyis a surgical procedure that can be performed to remove one or both fallopian tubes. This minimally invasive surgical procedure is carried out by laparoscopy (laparoscopy).
► “The operation takes place under general anesthesia and lasts about half an hour, explains our interlocutor. The surgeon will then perform small incisions at the navel and iliac tips (usually 0.5 to 1 cm long) so that surgical instruments, including the laparoscope, can be inserted. The surgeon will then identify and isolate the fallopian tubes to be removed. The tubes are then cut, ligated (closed) or removed completely, depending on the method chosen“.
► Once the salpingectomy is completed, the incisions are closed using sutures. These incisions are usually very small and leave small scars.
“Laparoscopic salpingectomy has several advantages over open surgery, including faster recovery, smaller scars and less postoperative pain”. The length of recovery after surgery can vary, but generally, short-term hospitalization is necessaryfollowed by a period of rest and recovery at home.
► After the procedure, the patient will need to follow the surgeon’s instructions for the postoperative period, including wound care, medications, and follow-up visits.
What are the risks and side effects?
A salpingectomy is a surgical procedure that carries risks and potential side effects, just like any other medical procedure, especially related to anesthesia. “Side effects include: common pain and discomfort after surgery. Medications may be prescribed.”
How long does it take to recover?
Recovery time after a salpingectomy can vary depending on several factors, including general health and pain tolerance. “Recovery is relatively quick but we generally offer a week’s break“, advises the doctor. It is recommended avoid intensive physical activities for approximately 2 to 4 weeks. It is essential to follow the doctor’s instructions for the postoperative period. This may include taking medications for pain, managing scar care, preventing infection, and following activity restrictions.
“Salpingectomy has no direct impact on the rules themselves, because periods are mainly governed by the ovaries and uterusreassures Dr. Darmon. However, it is important to note that each woman may respond differently to a salpingectomy depending on her individual physiology.“.
The duration before resuming sexual intercourse is generally 15 days
Can you be pregnant after a salpingectomy?
A total salpingectomy, that is to say the complete removal of both fallopian tubes on both sides, causes permanent infertility. “When they are removed, the passage of the eggs is blocked, making natural conception impossible hence the importance of reflection before surgery“, specifies the gynecologist. However, there are still ways to achieve a pregnancy after a total salpingectomy. “There In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an option for women who have undergone bilateral salpingectomy. This is an assisted reproduction technique that allows eggs and sperm to be fertilized outside the body, in a laboratory. Once the embryos are formed, they are then transferred to the woman’s uterus.e”. This appeal, in such circumstances, must remain very exceptional.
How soon can you have sex?
The period after a salpingectomy, like any surgical procedure, requires a recovery period to allow the body to heal properly. “The duration before resuming sexual intercourse is usually 15 days when the pain and discomfort have subsided and the wound is well healed”, concludes our interlocutor.
Thanks to Dr Jean-Claude Darmon, surgeon-gynecologist and senologist at the ICA – Polyclinique Urbain V (Elsan) in Avignon.