Tube Removal Versus Tying Tubes

Introduction

In achieving female sterilization, two surgical procedures are adequate for permanent contraception. The two surgical procedures are tube removal and tying tubes. These both are called female sterilization surgery. The procedure is meant for women not planning to have kids in the future. It involves the alteration of the fallopian tubes and other structures that carry the eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. Tubal ligation is the blocking of the eggs, and tubal removal is the complete extraction of fallopian tubes. In recent research, tubal removal has gained momentum. The introduction delves into the analysis, advantages, and disadvantages of tubal ligation and tying tubes. Understanding the merits and demerits may help people in informed decision-making.

What Is Tube Removal?

Tube removal is a surgical procedure in which the surgeon completely cuts and extracts the fallopian tubes. The other name for tube removal is salpingectomy. In the female reproductive system, the fallopian tube is the junction between the uterus and the ovaries. The fallopian tube justifies the woman's fertility, which is a junction for the traveling of eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. The surgery can be combined with other surgical procedures, such as traditional open, laparoscopic, and robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery.

Indications of Tube Removal:

The indications of tube removal are described below:

• Permanent Contraception: Several women opt for this surgical procedure for effective permanent contraception. A woman who does not want more kids can opt for this procedure.

• Ectopic Pregnancy: The procedure is indicated in the case of ectopic pregnancy, in which the egg is implanted externally from the uterus. The abnormal tube is removed and is manageable for ectopic pregnancy.

• Ovarian Cancer Prevention: People at high risk of ovarian cancer or with a family history of ovarian cancer can opt for this procedure. This will help in the prevention of ovarian cancer.

• Ovarian Cyst Treatment: In case of a large ovarian cyst, the procedure is performed to protect the ovary.

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: People with pelvic inflammatory disease can undergo this procedure because the disorder may affect the fallopian tube.

• Combination With Hysterectomy: Tube removal can be combined with hysterectomy (uterus removal). It will decrease the threat of ovarian cancer.

The Procedure of Tube Removal:

The steps involved in the surgery of tube removal are described below:

• The healthcare provider may administer anesthesia to prevent pain and discomfort.

• The surgeon may make a small cut over the stomach area. This will help them with the insertion of a laparoscope.

• The introduction of carbon dioxide gas in the abdomen for better visualization of the fallopian tubes.

• The laparoscope is inserted to see the fallopian tubes.

• The fallopian tubes are separated from the surrounding structures using clips or tools.

• Then, the fallopian tubes are sealed, and the tubes are cut and removed.

• The incision is stitched. The carbon dioxide gas is released from the abdomen area.

• The patient is then shifted to the recovery area.

What Are Tying Tubes?

Tying tubes is a surgical procedure to prevent pregnancy permanently. The other name for tying tubes is tubal ligation. During this procedure, the tubes are obstructed. This will prevent the entry of eggs into the uterus.

Indications of Tying Tubes:

• Permanent Contraception: The surgical procedure is recommended for women not planning to have children. It is a type of permanent contraception.

• Completed Family Planning: Individuals who have completed their family and do not wish to have additional kids.

• Medical Conditions: A female with life-threatening medical conditions that can make pregnancy risky. They can choose to tie tubes. This will help in preventing complications associated with pregnancy.

• Genetic Disorders: Women with a family history of congenital disorders may choose to tie tubes. This will prevent passing these conditions to the offspring.

• Personal Choice: Some individuals choose to live their life child-free. So, they opt for tying tubes.

• Failed Other Contraceptive Methods: If a woman has failed with other contraceptive methods. They can opt for tubal ligation.

The Procedure of Tying Tubes:

• The healthcare provider may administer anesthesia to provide pain relief surgery.

• The surgeon may make a small incision over the stomach area.

• The fallopian tubes are obstructed or sealed using clips or rings.

• The cut ends are tied with stitches to prevent the movement of the eggs.

• Falope rings or electrocoagulation are used for sealing.

• Then, the patient is shifted to the recovery ward.

What Are the Advantages of Tube Removal and Tying Tubes?

The advantages of tube removal and tying tubes are as follows:

Advantages of Tube Removal:

• It helps prevent the risk of ovarian cancer.

• It is a highly effective and permanent form of contraception.

• The risk of ectopic pregnancy is eliminated.

• It protects the ovary during the ovarian cyst treatment.

Advantages of Tying Tubes:

• They provide a permanent contraceptive solution to couples who are not planning to have kids in the future.

• The surgical procedure has been used for decades. So, it is an effective method for permanent birth control.

• The recovery is early and shorter as compared to tube removal.

• It is also less invasive as compared to tube removal.

• In this procedure, clips or rings are used. It allows for the reversibility of the procedure.

• The procedure affects only the fallopian tubes. The ovaries are functioning normally and release eggs.

What Are the Disadvantages of Tube Removal and Tying Tubes?

The disadvantages of tube removal and tying tubes are described below:

Disadvantages of Tube Removal:

• Tube removal is a permanent surgical procedure. It is not reversible, and the person will no longer be able to conceive naturally.

• There are several risks associated with the surgical removal of the tubes, such as bleeding, infection, allergic reactions, injury to surrounding structures, and complications due to laparoscopic procedures.

• It also affects the function of the ovaries.

• There is an increased risk of early menopause.

Disadvantages of Tying Tubes:

• The surgical procedure is reversible. The person who undergoes this procedure will be able to conceive in the future.

• It is an effective procedure, but there is a small risk of failure.

• The risks associated with the procedure are infection, bleeding, injury to the surrounding organs, wound healing complications, and allergic reactions related to anesthesia.

• There can be post-surgical pelvic pain and discomfort.

• The reversal of tying tubes can be costly and is not covered under insurance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tube removal and tying tubes are effective for those who are not planning to have kids in the future. Both surgical procedures have their advantages and disadvantages. The choice of the procedures depends on the person's health, personal choice, reproductive goals, and choice of contraception. Open communication with the healthcare provider will help understand both procedures' advantages and disadvantages.