Salpingo-Oophorectomy Surgery in Mumbai, India.

Salpingo-oophorectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes in various disorders. It can be unilateral, i.e., removing one ovary and fallopian tube or bilateral, i.e., removing both the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Salpingo-oophorectomy is indicated in cancers such as ovarian cancer and uterine cancer, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, tubo ovarian abscess, or as an elective procedure for reducing the risk of developing ovarian cancer. A laparoscopic salpingo-oophorectomy is a preferred technique because of the ease of surgery and the reduced risk of complications compared with the traditional /open salpingo-oophorectomy.

Alternate Name of Salpingo-Oophorectomy Surgery

Ovariectomy

Body Location

Ovaries and fallopian tubes

How is Salpingo-Oophorectomy performed?

Salpingo-oophorectomy can be performed with or without sedatives depending upon the age and overall health of the patient. A sedative is given intravenously if required. Anaesthesia is given to block the pain and sensation.

Laparoscopic salpingo-oophorectomy: An incision is made in the wall of the abdomen below the navel. A laparoscope is inserted through the incision to create images for guiding the surgeon to access the target area. The ovaries and fallopian tubes are detached and removed through the incision. An advanced robotic surgery is available where robots remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes.

Open salpingo-oophorectomy: In this traditional technique, open surgery is performed to remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes. This is associated with an increased risk of complications compared with the laparoscopic procedure.

Preparation for Salpingo-Oophorectomy Surgery

• Before undergoing surgery, you undergo certain blood tests including bleeding time/clotting time to determine your suitability for the surgery.
• You need to discuss with your gynaecologist or oncologist whether you undergo laparoscopic, robotic, or open surgery. In addition, you might need to undergo pre-anaesthesia check-ups or anaesthesia sensitivity testing.
• Diet before the procedure: You should not eat at least 6 hours before the procedure to avoid the risk of any complications.
• Medications: You should take your medications before the procedure by consulting with your surgeon. Don’t take aspirin or any other drugs that may affect bleeding or clotting time.
• You should reach the hospital at least 3-4 hours in advance as you will be kept under observation for some time before the procedure.

Procedure Type

Minimally invasive

Follow-Up

Follow-up care is crucial for a complication-free and speedy recovery. Here are the things that you should follow. Take proper rest as recommended by your doctor, and do not overexert yourself. Make sure to adhere to the follow-up plan with your surgeon to assess the recovery and the need for any additional interventions. Avoid bending and seek help from your family members or friends. You can start returning to your routine activities in a few weeks. However, avoid strenuous exercises such as running, weight lifting, etc., for additional few weeks.

Some Risks of Salpingo Ovariectomy Surgery

Laparoscopic or robotic procedures are quite safe and are associated with a few side effects. However, the following risks could be associated with the surgery:

• Bleeding: Bleeding from the incision site could occur, although the chances are less.
• Infection: Incision site infection could occur in a few cases, and you might need antibiotic treatment following the surgery.

In addition, surgery could be associated with the following side effects:

• Damage to adjoining organs such as the uterus, bladder, etc.
• Fatigue
• Pain
• Bowel habit change
• Muscle pain
• Joint pain
• Frequent vaginal infections
• Menopause
• Mood swings

Recovery From Salpingo Ovariectomy Surgery

Depending on the type of surgical procedure used, you will be transferred to the recovery room after a few hours to a couple of days. Once your vital signs have stabilized, you will be shifted to the hospital room/ward, and within a few days, you will be discharged from the hospital.

The recovery will take a few weeks, and you can start returning to your regular activities. While you are in recovery mode, avoid heavy-duty work for a few weeks that could stress your body. Getting regular follow-ups done per the schedule is also crucial to achieving a complication-free recovery.

Take good care of the incision wounds and keep them clean. Take your medications including painkillers and antibiotics as prescribed. If you experience unexplained pain or any other side effects, seek medical attention.