Salpingo-Oophorectomy

Overview

Salpingo-Oophorectomy is a surgical procedure in which one or both ovaries and the fallopian tubes are removed. It may be performed for several reasons, including the treatment of ovarian cancer, cysts or other medical conditions affecting the reproductive organs. This procedure may be done unilaterally (one side) or bilaterally (both sides), depending on the specific medical need.

Why Salpingo-Oophorectomy Treatment is Required?

• Ovarian Cancer: Removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes is commonly done for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
• Ovarian Cysts: Large or persistent cysts that do not respond to other treatments may require removal.
• Endometriosis: Severe cases of endometriosis can lead to the removal of affected ovaries and fallopian tubes.
• Genetic Risk: Women at high risk for ovarian or breast cancer (such as those with BRCA mutations) may choose this procedure as a preventive measure.
• Fertility Issues: Some women with chronic reproductive health problems may need this surgery to alleviate symptoms and improve their overall health.

Key Advantages of Salpingo-Oophorectomy Treatment

• Cancer Prevention: Reduces the risk of developing ovarian and fallopian tube cancer, especially in high-risk patients.
• Symptom Relief: Helps alleviate symptoms like pelvic pain or pressure caused by ovarian cysts or endometriosis.
• Fertility Preservation: In cases of disease or chronic health conditions, it may prevent the spread of cancer or alleviate infertility-related issues.
• Reduced Risk of Complications: Prevents complications from untreated ovarian conditions that may lead to more serious health problems.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Salpingo-Oophorectomy Treatment

• Pre-Surgery Consultation: Discuss your full medical history and any current medications with your surgeon. A thorough assessment will help determine the best approach.
• Pre-Surgery Tests: Blood tests, imaging scans (like ultrasound or CT scans), and other diagnostics may be required to assess your condition and confirm the need for surgery.
• Fasting: You will need to fast for several hours before the surgery as per the surgeon’s instructions.
• Post-Surgery Care Plan: Plan for someone to assist you at home for the first few days after surgery to help with recovery.

How Salpingo-Oophorectomy Treatment is Performed?

• General Anesthesia: The surgery is typically done under general anesthesia, so you will be asleep during the procedure.
• Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen or, in some cases, uses laparoscopic techniques with smaller incisions for quicker recovery.
• Removal: The ovaries and fallopian tubes are carefully removed through the incision. If needed, the uterus may also be removed in a procedure called total abdominal hysterectomy.
• Recovery: The procedure can take from one to two hours depending on whether it is unilateral or bilateral.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

1. Before the Procedure:

You will be given pre-operative instructions, including fasting and medications to help prevent infection or blood clots.

2. During the Procedure:

You will be unconscious and unable to feel pain. The surgeon will carefully remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Laparoscopic surgery may reduce recovery time and minimise scarring.

3. After the Procedure:

You may experience some pain or discomfort in the abdominal area, which is normal. Hospital stays typically range from one to three days, and you will need to rest for a few weeks to allow for healing.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection.
• Bleeding: There is a small risk of bleeding during the surgery.
• Hormonal Changes: Removal of the ovaries leads to menopause, which can cause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes.
• Loss of Fertility: This procedure removes the organs necessary for pregnancy, so it may impact future fertility.
• Damage to Surrounding Organs: Though rare, surrounding organs such as the bladder, bowel, or ureters may be affected during surgery.
• Blood Clots: Prolonged inactivity post-surgery can increase the risk of blood clots.

Results/Outcomes

• Symptom Improvement: Patients often experience significant relief from symptoms related to ovarian conditions like cysts, cancer, or endometriosis.
• Prevention of Cancer Spread: In cancer cases, this surgery can prevent the spread of cancerous cells, providing a long-term benefit.
• Quality of Life: With proper hormone replacement therapy (HRT), many women maintain a good quality of life after surgery, despite the onset of menopause.