Our Summary

This research paper looks at the rates of a procedure called opportunistic salpingectomy (OS) in Canada between 2017 and 2020. OS is the removal of the fallopian tubes during another pelvic surgery, and it can help prevent ovarian cancer.

The study looked at data from over 174,000 people who had either a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or tubal sterilization (a form of permanent birth control where the fallopian tubes are blocked or cut). The researchers wanted to see how many of these procedures also included OS.

They found that the number of hysterectomies that included OS increased from about a third in 2017 to about 40% in 2020. For tubal sterilizations, the rate of OS increased from about a quarter in 2017 to over 40% in 2020.

The region with the highest rate of OS was British Columbia, but many other areas also saw significant increases, particularly for tubal sterilizations.

In conclusion, more and more OS procedures are being performed in Canada following a recommendation in 2015 by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. However, the researchers estimate that there were still over 76,000 missed opportunities to prevent ovarian cancer by performing OS during hysterectomies and tubal sterilizations.

FAQs

  1. What is opportunistic salpingectomy (OS) and how does it help prevent ovarian cancer?
  2. Has the rate of OS procedures increased in Canada between 2017 and 2020?
  3. What is the region with the highest rate of OS in Canada?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering bilateral tubal ligation to discuss the option of opportunistic salpingectomy (OS) with their healthcare provider. This additional procedure can help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer in the future. It is important to have a thorough discussion with your doctor about all available options and potential benefits.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended bilateral tubal ligation include those who are seeking permanent birth control, have completed their desired family size, have medical conditions that make pregnancy dangerous, or have a high risk of passing on genetic conditions. Additionally, patients with a family history of ovarian cancer may also be recommended bilateral tubal ligation as a preventive measure.

Timeline

Before bilateral tubal ligation:

  1. Patient discusses permanent birth control options with their healthcare provider.
  2. Patient considers the risks and benefits of bilateral tubal ligation.
  3. Patient undergoes counseling and informed consent process.
  4. Patient schedules the procedure and prepares for it, including fasting before surgery.
  5. Patient undergoes the bilateral tubal ligation procedure, which typically takes less than an hour.

After bilateral tubal ligation:

  1. Patient may experience some discomfort and cramping immediately after the procedure.
  2. Patient is monitored for any complications and may be discharged the same day or the following day.
  3. Patient is advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
  4. Patient may experience some spotting or bleeding for a few days after the procedure.
  5. Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for a post-operative appointment to ensure proper healing and discuss any concerns.
  6. Patient experiences the long-term benefits of permanent birth control, including no risk of pregnancy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of bilateral tubal ligation?

  2. How effective is bilateral tubal ligation as a form of permanent birth control?

  3. Are there any alternative birth control methods that may be more suitable for me?

  4. What is the recovery process like after bilateral tubal ligation?

  5. Will bilateral tubal ligation affect my hormone levels or menstrual cycle?

  6. Are there any long-term effects of bilateral tubal ligation that I should be aware of?

  7. How soon after bilateral tubal ligation can I return to normal activities, including sexual intercourse?

  8. Are there any factors that may make me a poor candidate for bilateral tubal ligation?

  9. What is the success rate of bilateral tubal ligation in preventing pregnancy?

  10. Are there any lifestyle changes I should consider after undergoing bilateral tubal ligation?

Reference

Authors: Kaur P, Rufin K, Finlayson SJ, Huntsman DG, Kwon JS, McAlpine JN, Miller DM, Hanley GE. Journal: J Obstet Gynaecol Can. 2024 Apr;46(4):102278. doi: 10.1016/j.jogc.2023.102278. Epub 2023 Nov 8. PMID: 37944815