TUBAL LIGATION

General Information

DEFINITION-Tying the fallopian tubes to accomplish sterilization in a woman.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED-Fallopian tubes.

REASONS FOR SURGERY-Prevention of unwanted pregnancy. It is important to receive professional counseling before deciding to undergo this surgery. Sterilization is usually irreversible.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Obesity; smoking; poor nutrition.
• Recent or chronic illness.
• Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleeping pills; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES-Obstetrician-gynecologist or general surgeon.

WHERE PERFORMED-Hospital or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies.
• After surgery: Blood studies.

ANESTHESIA

• Local anesthesia by injection.
• Spinal anesthesia by injection.
• General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the windpipe.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• Several techniques are used to expose the fallopian tubes for surgery. The most common are laparoscopy, posterior colpotomy (approach through the rear of the vagina) and minilaparotomy (approach through an incision just above the pubic-hair line).
• Once the fallopian tubes are exposed, a small section of each tube is cut free and removed. The severed ends are tied.
• If an incision was made, the skin is closed with sutures or clips, which usually can be removed about 1 week after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Inadvertent injury to bowel.
• Shoulder pain (after laparoscopy).

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY-0 to 1 day.

PROBABLE OUTCOME-Expect complete healing without complications with sterility for life. Your menstrual periods will continue as usual. Allow about 2 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

† Use an electric heating pad, a heat lamp or a warm compress to relieve surgical--

wound pain.

• Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incision gently with mild unscented soap. > Consider psychological counseling if you feel sad or depressed after the surgery.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

ACTIVITY

• Return to daily activities and work as soon as possible to promote healing.
• Avoid vigorous exercise for 2 weeks after surgery.
• Resume driving 3 days after returning home.
• Resume sexual relations when your doctor has determined that healing is complete.

DIET-Clear liquid diet until the gastrointestinal tract functions again. Then eat a well--balanced diet to promote healing.

Call Your Doctor If

† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.

• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• You experience nausea, vomiting, constipation or abdominal swelling.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.