Salpingectomy for Hydrosalpinx before IVF - Khobragade Multispeciality Hospital

What is Salpingectomy for Hydrosalpinx?

Salpingectomy is a surgical procedure to remove one or both fallopian tubes. When performed for hydrosalpinx, it involves removing the tube that has become swollen and filled with fluid due to blockage, usually from previous infections or inflammation. Hydrosalpinx is known to reduce the success rates of IVF as the toxic fluid can leak into the uterus, affecting embryo implantation. Therefore, salpingectomy is often recommended before IVF to improve outcomes.

Symptoms of Hydrosalpinx

Many women with hydrosalpinx do not experience noticeable symptoms. However, some may face:

Pelvic pain or discomfort
Lower abdominal pain
Unusual vaginal discharge
Infertility or difficulty conceiving
Pain during intercourse

Since it often remains silent, it is usually diagnosed during fertility evaluations or ultrasound scans prior to IVF treatment.

Procedure or Treatment

1. Pre-operative Preparation:

Diagnosis through ultrasound or HSG (Hysterosalpingography).
Blood tests and pre-anesthesia evaluations.

2. Surgical Procedure:

Performed under general anesthesia.
Mostly done laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) for minimal invasiveness.
The affected fallopian tube is carefully separated from surrounding tissues and removed.
The ovaries and uterus are left intact to proceed with IVF treatment.

3. Recovery:

Usually discharged within 24-48 hours.
Return to daily activities within a week.
Advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous work for a few weeks.

Prevention

Hydrosalpinx cannot always be prevented, but reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can help. Preventive measures include:

Practicing safe sex
Seeking early treatment for infections
Regular gynecological check-ups

Benefits of Salpingectomy Before IVF

Improves IVF Success Rates: Removes toxic fluid that can harm embryos.
Reduces Risk of Infection: Eliminates the diseased tube, lowering chances of infection spreading.
Prevents Ectopic Pregnancy: Blocks risk of ectopic pregnancies in a damaged tube.
Enhances Uterine Environment: Provides a healthier environment for embryo implantation and growth.
Permanent Solution: Once the tube is removed, recurrence of hydrosalpinx is eliminated in that tube.

Types of Salpingectomy

Unilateral Salpingectomy
- Removal of one fallopian tube.
- Common when hydrosalpinx is present only on one side.
Bilateral Salpingectomy
- Removal of both fallopian tubes.
- Sometimes done if both tubes are severely damaged or blocked.
Partial Salpingectomy (Salpingostomy)
- Only a part of the tube is removed or opened.
- Less commonly used for hydrosalpinx before IVF due to risk of fluid reaccumulation.
Laparoscopic Salpingectomy
- Minimally invasive approach with small incisions.
- Faster recovery, less pain, and minimal scarring.
Open Salpingectomy
- Traditional open surgery with a larger incision.
- Rarely required unless there are extensive adhesions or other complications.