Salpingectomy

• Salpingectomy is usually necessary because of previous
   pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or to remove an
   ectopic pregnancy. It involves partial or total removal of a
   Fallopian tube. The uterus and ovaries are left intact.

• The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic
   and takes 30-60 minutes. It is sometimes performed
   as an emergency.

• The procedure is commonly performed laparoscopically,
   using a small, fibre-optic 'telescope' which is inserted
   into the abdomen through a small incision. Occasionally
   a conventional operation (laparotomy) is used.

• There will be some discomfort following surgery which
   will be controlled with pain killers.

• The average hospital stay is 2-6 days and will depend on
   the type of surgery. Complete recovery should occur
   within 6 weeks.

• Women who have both Fallopian tubes removed will only
   be able to become pregnant by in vitro fertilization (IVF).