Tuboplasty is a surgical procedures whose goal is to restore the functionality and integrity of a woman’s fallopian tubes. Fallopian tubes are long, slender tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus. In the female reproductive tract, there is one ovary and one fallopian tube on each side of the uterus.
Why is a Laparoscopic Tuboplasty performed?
The main goal of tuboplasty is the restoration of woman’s fertility This surgery can be performed to reverse a tubal ligation, , or to repair the fallopian tubes after damage from an infection or development of scar tissue.
Fallopian tube surgery may be done if:
- An x-ray test shows blocked fallopian tubes. This can be a result of infection or development of scar tissue. Fallopian tube issues may range from a small adhesion, to complete tubal blockage.
- A blocked fallopian tube has a buildup of fluid (hydrosalpinx).
- The patient would like to have a reversal of tubal ligation, a procedure done as a permanent contraception solution
Tuboplasty has a high success rate; over 65% of patients who undergo this procedure get pregnant in the first year post-surgery.
What Are the Different Types of Tuboplasty Procedures?
There are different types of tubal procedures:
- Tubal Reanastomosis consists of connecting or joining two healthy tubal segments together and is essentially a tubal ligation reversal.
- Fimbrioplasty is a procedure that repairs a blockage of the fallopian tube
- Salpingostomy is a procedure in which doctors create a new distal opening for the fallopian tube which could be done either to remove an ectopic pregnancy (one that occurs outside of the uterus) or to repair a damaged tube.
Note: Salpingostomy shouldn’t be confused with a salpingectomy (the removal of fallopian tubes).
- Salpingolysis is the removal of adhesions on the fallopian tubes that could be the result of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.
How do you prepare for Laparoscopic Tuboplasty?
During the pre-procedure consultation the Viva Eve surgeon will discuss the following:
- Anesthesia options and any allergies you may have
- Current medications, herbs, and supplements that you take and whether you need to stop taking them before surgery
- Fasting before surgery, such as avoiding food or drink after midnight the night before
- Arranging for someone to pick you up after surgery
Note: in ectopic pregnancy Tuboplasty Procedure is considered a life-threatening emergency, and an open, not laparoscopic Tuboplasty is most often performed in those situations.
What can you expect during a Laparoscopic Tuboplasty?
This operation is performed under general anesthesia. During laparoscopic tuboplasty procedure a laparoscope with a camera on the end is inserted through a small incision in the belly button to provide the surgeon with a visual of the blockage. The abdomen is inflated to allow the surgeon to see inside. A minimally invasive technique is used to surgically open the blocked area of the fallopian tube.
Viva Eve’s gynecologic surgeons always advise patients during their preop consultation that in rare cases the surgery that begins as laparoscopic may need to be converted to an open procedure during the operation.
What is the follow up and recovery like for a Laparoscopic Tuboplasty?
Recovery after LaparoscopicTuboplasty depends on each patient’s individual situation, including the reason for the surgery and how it was performed. After this surgery, some patients are able to go home the same day and some need to stay at the hospital overnight. Laparoscopic Tuboplasty usually offers quicker recovery, less pain and a shorter hospital stay. Most patients can return to full activity in two to four weeks after surgery.
What should I expect during recovery?
It is normal for the navel and abdomen area to be sore and possibly bruised after the procedure. Patients may feel discomfort in their shoulders and back from the gas placed in the abdomen during the procedure. Some patients may have some vaginal discharge or spotting after surgery.
If bandages were used to cover up the incisions, they can be removed 24 hours after surgery, and the adhesive or stitches will dissolve on their own. Patients may shower but are advised not to have baths or go swimming for about 2 weeks after the surgery.
Patients should take it easy the first week, and then gradually increase their activity level with short walks and light activity. They should avoid lifting heavy objects or doing strenuous exercise until their Viva Eve doctor clears them for such activities. Sexual activity can resume when the patient feels comfortable, and when the physician says it’s OK.
What are the potential risks for a Laparoscopic Tuboplasty?
The risks for laparoscopic Tuboplasty surgery are similar to most other surgical operations. They include wound healing, bleeding, infection, and seroma (fluid collection) formation. Viva Eve’s surgeons will ensure that the recovery goes smoothly and if you follow the detailed postoperative instructions, you should heal quickly.