Laparoscopic salpingectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that removes one or both fallopian tubes. Before proceeding further, let us understand what fallopian tubes are and what their functions are.

Fallopian Tubes - Fallopian tubes, also called uterine tubes or salpinges, are slender tubes that are a part of the female reproductive tract. There are two fallopian tubes present on each side of the uterus. The function of the fallopian tube is to pass the egg from the ovary to the uterus after fertilization. There are hair-like fallopian cilia inside the fallopian tubes that help to carry the fertilized eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.

Types of salpingectomy

There are two types of laparoscopic salpingectomy-

• Partial salpingectomy - In this procedure, only a part of the fallopian tube is removed surgically.
• Complete salpingectomy - In this procedure, the surgeon makes an opening in the fallopian tube to remove its content. Here, the tube itself is not removed.

When is laparoscopic salpingectomy done?

Laparoscopic salpingectomy can be done to resolve the following medical issues-

• Remove ectopic pregnancy
• Cure a blocked fallopian tube
• Rectify a ruptured fallopian tube
• Treat an infection
• Treat fallopian tube cancer

How is laparoscopic salpingectomy performed?

The surgery is performed under the influence of general anesthesia. The followings steps are involved in laparoscopic salpingectomy-

• The doctor gives you general anesthesia before starting the surgery. It will reduce the discomfort during the treatment.
• A small incision is made on the lower abdomen and laparoscope, which is a long instrument equipped with a camera is inserted inside the abdomen through the incision.
• The abdomen will be inflated with gas, which helps the surgeon to get a clear view of the inside of the uterus and other pelvic organs.
• The doctor will make a few more incisions and insert other medical tools that will aid in removing the fallopian tubes.
• As soon the doctor removes the fallopian tube/tubes, the incisions will be closed.

The entire surgery completes within an hour, depending upon the complexity of the treatment.

How is the recovery after the laparoscopic salpingectomy surgery?

Since laparoscopic salpingectomy is a minimally invasive surgery, the recovery period is shorter than the traditional salpingectomy. You will be monitored for a few hours in the hospital. After the surgery, you may feel a little nauseated and experience mild pain around the incisions. However, all these side-effects will subside after a few days.

The period of recovery varies from person to person, but, in general, you will feel completely recovered within 2 weeks of the surgery.

You will be advised to follow certain instructions for a few days like-

• Avoid lifting heavy objects
• Do not indulge in strenuous exercise
• Take medications regularly

When should I call the doctor?

Generally, the incisions made during laparoscopic salpingectomy are small and heal faster. However, you need to call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following-

• Fever or chills
• Pain and nausea
• Redness, swelling or discharge around the incisions
• Vaginal bleeding
• Difficulty in emptying the bladder

Are there any risks involved?

There are certain risks involved in any type of surgery, which is why it is always advised to consult the best doctor or surgeon. A few risks that you may encounter are the following-

• Infection at the site of incisions
• Internal bleeding
• Hernia
• Damage to the nearby organs or blood vessels

Although there are certain risks, they are very less than the traditional abdominal salpingectomy. Also, the laparoscopic way is minimally invasive, safe, and more effective. However, at the same time, it is equally important to consult the best surgeon to get the best result.

Dr. Sumina Reddy is one of the most renowned and the best gynecologists in Hyderabad. With years of experience and profound knowledge, she can deal with any complex gynecological case easily.

Visit Dr. Sumina Reddy Clinic to know more about laparoscopic salpingectomy.