Our Summary

This study looked at whether the use of a certain type of surgery for female sterilization (salpingectomy) increased after two major medical organizations recommended it for preventing ovarian cancer. The researchers also wanted to see if this surgery led to more complications compared to the more commonly used sterilization procedure (tubal ligation). They reviewed the records of women who underwent either of these two types of sterilization surgeries at four hospitals in Houston and New York between 2013 and 2016.

The findings showed that the use of salpingectomy did indeed increase significantly after the medical organizations’ recommendations - from 5-9% of all sterilization surgeries in 2013-2014 to 78% by 2016. Importantly, the researchers didn’t find any increase in complications from this surgery compared to tubal ligation. However, salpingectomy did take a bit longer to perform and often required an extra surgical port (entry point into the body).

In conclusion, the support from the medical organizations for salpingectomy as a way to prevent ovarian cancer seems to have increased its use for sterilization. The researchers recommend that doctors consider these findings when discussing sterilization options with their patients.

FAQs

  1. Did the use of salpingectomy for female sterilization increase after recommendations from medical organizations?
  2. Were there any increased complications from salpingectomy compared to tubal ligation?
  3. What differences were noted in the procedure of salpingectomy compared to tubal ligation?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient considering bilateral tubal ligation is to discuss the option of salpingectomy as a potential alternative. While tubal ligation is a common and effective method of sterilization, recent research suggests that salpingectomy may offer additional benefits in terms of reducing the risk of ovarian cancer. Patients should weigh the potential benefits of salpingectomy against the slightly longer procedure time and additional surgical port required. Ultimately, the decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider based on individual health factors and preferences.

Suitable For

Patients who are at high risk for ovarian cancer, or who have a family history of ovarian cancer, may be recommended bilateral tubal ligation as a preventive measure. Additionally, patients who are seeking a permanent form of contraception and do not wish to have any more children may also be recommended this procedure. Ultimately, the decision to undergo bilateral tubal ligation should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider based on individual factors and preferences.

Timeline

Before bilateral tubal ligation:

  • Patient meets with their healthcare provider to discuss their desire for permanent contraception
  • Patient and healthcare provider discuss different sterilization options, including tubal ligation
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluation to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery
  • Patient schedules the tubal ligation procedure and prepares for the surgery

After bilateral tubal ligation:

  • Patient undergoes the tubal ligation procedure, which involves blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from traveling to the uterus
  • Patient may experience some discomfort and pain after the surgery, which can be managed with pain medication
  • Patient is monitored for any potential complications, such as infection or bleeding
  • Patient is advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a period of time after the surgery
  • Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for post-operative care and to discuss any concerns or questions about the procedure.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about bilateral tubal ligation include:

  1. What are the risks and benefits of bilateral tubal ligation compared to other sterilization methods such as salpingectomy?
  2. How effective is bilateral tubal ligation at preventing pregnancy?
  3. What is the recovery process like after undergoing bilateral tubal ligation?
  4. Are there any long-term effects or complications associated with bilateral tubal ligation?
  5. How does bilateral tubal ligation impact my risk for ovarian cancer compared to other sterilization methods?
  6. Are there any alternative options to bilateral tubal ligation that I should consider?
  7. Will bilateral tubal ligation affect my hormonal levels or menstrual cycle?
  8. How permanent is bilateral tubal ligation and are there any chances of reversal if I change my mind in the future?
  9. What is the success rate of bilateral tubal ligation in terms of preventing pregnancy?
  10. Are there any specific follow-up care or monitoring needed after undergoing bilateral tubal ligation?

Reference

Authors: Kim AJ, Barberio A, Berens P, Chen HY, Gants S, Swilinski L, Acholonu U, Chang-Jackson SC. Journal: J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2019 Nov-Dec;26(7):1363-1368. doi: 10.1016/j.jmig.2019.02.003. Epub 2019 Feb 13. PMID: 30771489