Laparoscopic Salpingectomy: What to Expect With Fallopian Tube Removal
Key takeaways:
Laparoscopic salpingectomy is a minimally invasive way to remove one or both fallopian tubes.
There are different reasons you may need a salpingectomy. This may include ectopic pregnancy, permanent birth control, or to lessen the risk of ovarian cancer.
A laparoscopic salpingectomy approach is preferred because it has a much shorter recovery time.
Salpingectomy is a common procedure to remove one or both fallopian tubes in women. Your provider may suggest fallopian tube removal for a variety of reasons. This may include infection, ectopic pregnancy, or to lessen your ovarian cancer risk. Some people may also choose salpingectomy as a permanent form of birth control.
Laparoscopic salpingectomy is a minimally invasive form of salpingectomy that shortens recovery time.
How is a salpingectomy performed?
Surgeons usually perform salpingectomies through laparoscopy or in some cases a small 3 cm to 4 cm incision. This is a minimally invasive approach that uses two or three small incisions the size of the tip of a pinky through the abdomen. People can go home the same day of surgery, and recovery time is much shorter.
A salpingectomy can also be done through a larger abdominal incision. But Dr. Karen Wang, assistant professor of gynecology at Johns Hopkins Medicine says, “In these current times, there are extremely rare cases where open approach is preferred.” That’s because this may add to your pain, recovery time, and risk of complications.
Open salpingectomies are usually saved for when someone is already having a surgery that requires a larger incision, says Dr. Wang. This may be the case during surgeries like a Cesarean (C-section) birth, abdominal hysterectomy, or non-gynecologic surgery.
All salpingectomies require anesthesia — typically general anesthesia. This means you’ll be put to sleep so you have no discomfort during the procedure.
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What are the different types of salpingectomy?
There are four different types of salpingectomy. These are based on how much fallopian tube tissue you need to have removed. All of these types can be performed through laparoscopy. Your provider will suggest the best procedure and technique for you based on your reasons for salpingectomy.
Partial salpingectomy
A partial salpingectomy removes only a part of the fallopian tube. The fallopian tube has three parts: ampulla, isthmus, and the fimbria.
Most ectopic pregnancies occur in the isthmic (middle) part of the fallopian tube. And this technique may be used to remove an ectopic pregnancy. But the most common reason for a partial salpingectomy is permanent birth control.
Complete salpingectomy
A complete salpingectomy removes the entire fallopian tube. There’s no added risk to having a complete versus a partial salpingectomy. This is why experts now recommend complete removal of the fallopian tubes for permanent birth control. Plus, a complete salpingectomy has the extra benefit of lowering the risk of ovarian cancer.
Unilateral salpingectomy
A unilateral salpingectomy means removing just one fallopian tube. This can be a partial or complete removal. The most common reason for a unilateral salpingectomy is an ectopic pregnancy. That’s because ectopic pregnancies only involve one fallopian tube. When treated surgically, your provider will only have to remove the affected tube.
Bilateral salpingectomy
A bilateral salpingectomy is removal of both fallopian tubes. This can also be a partial or complete removal. This is typically done when you have completed childbearing or have no interest in childbirth in the future.
What is the recovery like after salpingectomy?
Recovery from an uncomplicated, laparoscopic salpingectomy is less than 1 week. Recovery from a procedure that requires a larger incision can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks.
Prescription pain medications may be needed for 1 or 2 days. After that, most people just need over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
Most people get back to their regular activities within 1 or 2 weeks after a laparoscopic salpingectomy. But salpingectomies can sometimes have complications, which may lengthen the recovery time.
Issues related to the surgery might include:
Severe pain
Bleeding and blood transfusion
Damage to the organs near the fallopian tubes (like the intestines)
Anesthesia complications
Infection
Can you get pregnant after a salpingectomy?
It depends. If you have a unilateral salpingectomy, you can still get pregnant from the remaining tube. If you have a bilateral salpingectomy, your chance of natural pregnancy is essentially zero. That’s why bilateral salpingectomy is a common choice for permanent birth control.
Alternative methods can help if you have had a salpingectomy but still want to get pregnant. In vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproduction may make pregnancy possible. Talk with a fertility specialist to find out what options you might have.
The bottom line
A salpingectomy is the process of removing one or both fallopian tubes. There are many ways to perform the surgery. But a laparoscopic salpingectomy is the least invasive way. And it has a much quicker recovery time. Talk with your provider about the different types of salpingectomy and what you can expect. They can help you find the surgical option that’s best for you.
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References
Pereira, J. M. A., et al. (2022). Applicability, safety, and efficiency of salpingectomy versus electrocoagulation and laparoscopic tubal section in ambulatory. Revista Brasileira de Ginecologia e Obstetricia.
Shinar, S., et al. (2017). Total bilateral salpingectomy versus partial bilateral salpingectomy for permanent sterilization during cesarean delivery. Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics.
