Dr. Amol Naik

Also known as tubal sterilization, tubectomy is a permanent method of contraception in women. It is a surgical procedure in which a portion of the fallopian tubes are blocked to prevent an egg that is released from the ovaries, from reaching the uterus. In case an egg is present in the uterus, it carries with it the risk of fertilization, thus, can lead to pregnancy. Sometimes the patient may change her decision and ask for a reversal of the process. However, it should also be kept in mind that the surgery is a complex one. The results are often not guaranteed.

The Procedure

• Tubectomy refers to cutting or blocking a small portion of the fallopian tubes that prevent the released eggs from reaching the uterus.
• The surgeon reaches to the fallopian tubes by cutting open a portion of the abdomen in case of an open surgery.
• Laparoscopic techniques are also available to conduct the surgery.
• The fallopian tubes are blocked by an artificial clip to prevent the passage of eggs.

Are there any risk factors involved?

1. Tubectomy may create a number of health complications in the long run.
2. Tubectomy is not advised for patients who have previously undergone abdominal surgeries.
3. Major risks of injury such as perforation surrounding blood vessels, internal haemorrhage or a severely life-threatening situation such as ectopic pregnancy may occur later on. Ectopic pregnancy is when fertilization and implantation occur within the fallopian tube instead of the uterus.
4. Tubectomy is even more challenging than vasectomy and has higher chance of giving rise to health complications.

Although the procedure is complex, it has a few advantages as well. Minimally-invasive surgeries help in quicker recoveries. It is almost 99% effective as a measure of birth control and thus provides a permanent solution. This surgery can even be done immediately after delivery. Sometimes, in rural areas, family welfare departments, government hospitals and primary health care centres offer free surgery and care to aid and educate about family planning.