Our Summary

Ovarian cancer is a major cause of death among women and is often traced back to the fallopian tubes. As a result, it’s been suggested that removing the fallopian tubes during other procedures, like hysterectomies or sterilizations, could help prevent the disease. This study looked at how often this additional procedure (bilateral salpingectomy) was being performed in the U.S., and whether it was safe.

Between 2008 and 2013, the researchers found that the number of hysterectomies that also included a bilateral salpingectomy increased by 371%. In 2013, nearly 8% of all hysterectomies also included this procedure. The researchers didn’t find any increased risk of complications, infections, or fevers in cases where the extra procedure was performed, compared to cases where just a hysterectomy was done.

The likelihood of having the additional procedure was higher among younger women, those treated in larger, for-profit hospitals, and those who were having a hysterectomy for certain reasons. The study concludes that the additional procedure is becoming more common and doesn’t seem to increase the risk of complications.

FAQs

  1. What is a bilateral salpingectomy and why is it suggested to be performed during procedures like hysterectomies?
  2. Did the study find any increased risk of complications, infections, or fevers when a bilateral salpingectomy was performed in addition to a hysterectomy?
  3. Who is more likely to have the additional procedure of bilateral salpingectomy according to the study?

Doctor’s Tip

It’s important to discuss with your doctor the option of having a bilateral salpingectomy during your tubal ligation procedure to potentially reduce your risk of ovarian cancer. This additional procedure has been shown to be safe and may provide added protection against this deadly disease. Be sure to ask your doctor about the benefits and risks of including a bilateral salpingectomy in your tubal ligation surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are at higher risk for ovarian cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease or certain genetic mutations, may be recommended bilateral tubal ligation as a preventative measure. Additionally, patients who have completed their childbearing and are seeking a permanent form of contraception may also be recommended bilateral tubal ligation.

Timeline

Before bilateral tubal ligation:

  1. Patient discusses options with their healthcare provider and decides on bilateral tubal ligation as a form of permanent birth control.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluations to ensure they are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
  3. On the day of the procedure, the patient is admitted to the hospital or outpatient surgery center.
  4. The patient undergoes the bilateral tubal ligation procedure, which involves blocking, sealing, or cutting the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy.
  5. After the procedure, the patient may experience some pain, cramping, and discomfort, as well as potential side effects like nausea or fatigue.

After bilateral tubal ligation:

  1. Patient is monitored for a period of time after the procedure to ensure there are no immediate complications.
  2. Patient is given instructions on how to care for themselves at home, including recommendations for pain management and when to follow up with their healthcare provider.
  3. In the weeks and months following the procedure, the patient may experience changes in their menstrual cycle and potential side effects like irregular bleeding or hormonal fluctuations.
  4. Over time, the patient will no longer be able to conceive naturally, as the procedure is a permanent form of birth control.
  5. The patient may experience long-term benefits of bilateral tubal ligation, such as reduced risk of ovarian cancer and peace of mind regarding contraception.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a bilateral tubal ligation and how is it different from a bilateral salpingectomy?
  2. What are the potential risks and benefits of having a bilateral tubal ligation?
  3. How effective is a bilateral tubal ligation in preventing pregnancy?
  4. Are there any long-term side effects or complications associated with bilateral tubal ligation?
  5. Is bilateral tubal ligation reversible, and if so, what are the chances of success?
  6. How does bilateral tubal ligation affect the risk of ovarian cancer?
  7. Is there an increased risk of complications if I choose to have a bilateral salpingectomy in addition to a bilateral tubal ligation?
  8. What factors should I consider when deciding between a bilateral tubal ligation and a bilateral salpingectomy?
  9. How often do you perform bilateral tubal ligation procedures, and what is your success rate?
  10. Are there any alternative methods of contraception that I should consider before pursuing a bilateral tubal ligation?

Reference

Authors: Hanley GE, McAlpine JN, Pearce CL, Miller D. Journal: Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2017 Mar;216(3):270.e1-270.e9. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.10.035. Epub 2016 Nov 1. PMID: 27810554