Tubectomy: Procedures, precautions and more
What exactly is a tubectomy?
Tubectomy, often known as tubal sterilisation, is a long-term contraception surgery for women. It is a surgical treatment that obstructs the fallopian tubes, preventing the egg generated by the ovary from reaching the uterus.
Tubectomy is indicated when a woman does not wish to have children in the future.
The doctor will thoroughly investigate the following:
- The requirement to consider tubectomy as an alternative
- Determining whether this is the best option for the individual
- Complications, side effects, and hazards associated with the technique
- Finding out whether there are any other options to meet the individual’s needs.
Procedure and Techniques:
Tubectomy is a surgical operation in which the fallopian tubes are cut and clipped or tied together to prevent the egg from going into the uterus.
The gynecologist will make a few minor incisions around the umblicus. A laparoscope (a telescopic tool) is inserted via one of the skin incisions into the operational site.
A small camera at the tip of the laparoscope transmits images to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to observe inside structures. The surgeon then plugs the tubes with specialised equipment by slicing parts of them or closing them with clips.
If looking to get the procedure done in India, one could consider searching for the best gynecology center in Kottakal, Delhi, or Mumbai as these areas provide cost effective treatments.
What are the types of tubectomy?
Tubectomy is typically performed laparoscopically since it leaves less scarring and allows the patient to leave the hospital the same day. The following are the many ways to tubectomy:
Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive method for diagnosing and treating disorders in the pelvic region.
Laparotomy: A tubectomy performed while a C-section is performed.
Micro laparoscopy: This is similar to laparoscopy but employs smaller instruments.
Mini-laparotomy: This is a tubal ligation method that is comparable to laparotomy but is less invasive.
Hysteroscopy is a vaginal method of diagnosing and treating problems with the pelvic organs.
There are two methods for sealing the fallopian tubes:
Using an electric current to cause the tube to clot (electrocoagulation) and a clip or band placed over the tubes. In some circumstances, a device will be utilised to separate the tubes from the ovaries and uterus, after which the tubes will be removed.
Postoperative Care is Required Following a tubectomy
After a tubectomy, most patients are sent home the same day. The following adverse effects are possible:
For the first 4-8 hours after surgery, you may have nausea and pain.
For a few days, you may have abdominal cramps and pain.
It is vital to visit the surgeon on a regular basis until healing is complete. Patients are routinely discharged with the following post-procedural guidelines:
For a week, avoid hard exercises and activities.
Avoid sexual activity for a week after surgery.
Continue using pain killers until you are completely free of the discomfort caused by the sutures.
Patients will be able to resume normal activities within a few days of surgery. However, it is critical to learn when to resume normal activities from trusted health care experts.
It is recommended that you see your doctor in the following situations:
- A fever is present.
- Itching at the wounds
- Sutured parts are bleeding.
- Fainting or drowsiness accompanied by a fever.
How long does it take to recover after a tubectomy?
Unless there are unforeseen difficulties, most patients leave the hospital the same day of their tubectomy. Stitches are normally removed seven to ten days following surgery, and follow-up appointments are required six weeks later to check for any issues.
Who is and is not eligible for a tubectomy?
This technique is available to women who require permanent birth control.
Doctors run particular tests on patients to ensure that no issues arise as a result of the treatment. Those with a history of abdominal surgery, lung difficulties, anaesthetic allergies, or cardiac problems may not be suitable candidates for tubectomy.
Tubectomy Side Effects
Tubectomy, like any other medical operation, has various risks, including:
Allergy: Some patients may be allergic to the anaesthetic or other medicines used during the treatment, resulting in allergic responses.
Bleeding: Surgical equipment can create injuries that result in profuse bleeding.
Infection: If the incision site is not properly cared for, it may become infected.
Tubectomy is a permanent birth control treatment for ectopic pregnancy. However, the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy cannot be avoided. Ectopic pregnancy occurs when eggs and sperm fertilise outside of the uterus. If it is not diagnosed at an early stage, it might turn fatal.
Is it possible to reverse a tubectomy?
Tubectomy is a nearly irreversible method of birth prevention. Surgeries have been performed in several parts of the world, with reports of effective reversal. However, studies suggest that the rate of pregnancy after tubectomy is very low, and there is usually no assured reversal for tubectomy.
Conclusion
Tubectomy or tubal ligation is a highly efficient permanent birth control strategy. It is typically a safe surgery, but the risks of consequences, such as infections, bleeding, and organ damage, must not be overlooked. It is an excellent choice for ladies seeking long-term birth control. However, due to the irreversibility of the decision, it must be made with caution.
