Dr. Cotter offers traditional laparoscopic tubal ligation and laparoscopic removal of the fallopian tubes. Dr. Cotter most often provides permanent sterilization through a laparoscopic salpingectomy (removal of the fallopian tube) due to evidence that shows this can reduce the rate of ovarian cancer (ovarian cancer can frequently start in the fallopian tube).
Traditional procedures such as tubal ligation and removal of the fallopian tubes, are surgical procedures done by Dr. Cotter under general anesthesia in the West Hills Surgical Center.
Laparoscopic Procedures
Laparoscopy is a modern technique in which an operation in the abdomen is performed through a few small incisions, usually 0.5-1.5 cm, as compared to larger incisions needed in traditional surgical procedures.
The key element in laparoscopic surgery is the use of a laparoscope, a medical instrument that gives the surgeon an exceptionally clear view of the inside of the abdominal cavity. It consists of miniature camera attached to the end of a slender telescopic instrument, typically inserted through the navel for a hysterectomy. The camera then projects the internal images onto a screen, providing a close-up view of the female reproductive organs.
Both the Tubal Ligation and Removal of Fallopian Tubes are done Laparoscopically.
Tubal Ligation
This is a surgery to close the fallopian tubes and is often referred to as "getting your tubes tied".
Laparoscopic tubal ligation typically takes about 30 minutes. A few small incisions are made and a laparoscope is inserted for a better, detailed view of the area. The ends of the fallopian tubes where they attach to the uterus are then burned closed (cauterized) or clamped off with a small clip or ring (band).
This procedure will often return you home the same day with minimal pain and a relatively short recovery time.
Removal of Fallopian Tubes
This is a surgery to remove the fallopian tubes and is medically known as a "salpigectomy". It is very similar to the Laparoscopic tubal ligation, however, rather than closing the fallopian tubes and leaving them in place, the whole tube is removed.
Oftentimes, this surgery is done for women with an increased risk for ectopic, or tubal, pregnancies.
Recently, some research has indicated that a major cause of ovarian cancer may originate in the fallopian tubes rather than the ovaries. This is one reason why a woman may decide to choose a salpingectomy over a tubal ligation.
