Complete Salpingectomy: What to Know

The surgeon removes one or both fallopian tubes. The ovaries and uterus may remain, so removing a tube does not by itself remove ovarian hormones. A complete removal differs from removing only a damaged section. It may be considered for an ectopic pregnancy, a diseased tube, or another gynaecological reason. If both tubes are removed, natural passage of an egg through the tubes is not possible; discuss fertility plans before consenting.

Ask which medicines to pause, when to stop eating and drinking, and whether you need an adult to take you home. Keyhole surgery may use small abdominal incisions and a camera; an open approach may require a larger incision. Rest, walk gently as advised, keep wounds clean and attend follow-up. Your team can explain pain relief, lifting limits, sex, work, and contraception for your situation.

Contact your surgical team urgently for fever, increasing abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, heavy vaginal bleeding, wound redness or discharge, shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, or a swollen painful leg. After surgery for suspected ectopic pregnancy, new severe pain or dizziness needs immediate assessment.

Ask why complete removal is advised, whether one or both tubes are involved, which surgical approach is planned, what was found, how the operation affects fertility, and which symptoms require urgent help.