It is rare to find ovarian cancer but it is also one of the deadliest forms of cancer. This is because it can be difficult to detect at an early stage.
Each year, ovarian cancer affects approximately 20,000 women. According to the American Cancer Society, less than half of women with ovarian cancer are expected to live beyond five years.
Many researchers and medical professionals are searching for ways to better prevent, detect and treat ovarian carcinoma, especially before the cancer reaches a more advanced state.
Salpingectomy, the procedure of removing the fallopian tube is a promising treatment. Fallopian tubes transport eggs from ovaries into the uterus. They are also the place where many cases of cancerous ovarian tissue begin. It may be possible, by removing the fallopian tube, to prevent ovarian carcinoma.
Understanding Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is classified into three main types:
- Ovarian epithelial tumours:
- Germ cells tumors:
- Tumors of the stromal cells:
There are several factors that increase a woman’s chance of developing ovarian carcinoma , including:
- (middle age or older)
- Family history of ovarian Cancer
- Personal history of breast, colon, or uterine cancer
- Personal history of endometriosis
- difficulties conceiving or never giving birth
- Inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
- Eastern European or Ashkenazi Jewish ethnicity
Removal of Fallopian Tubes For Cancer Prevention
Fallopian tubes connect the ovaries with the uterus. They are also the place where many ovarian cases begin. It may be possible, by removing the fallopian tube (a procedure called opportunistic Salpingectomy), to reduce the chance of developing ovarian carcinoma.
This procedure is not without risks. Fallopian tube removal can be performed as part of other pelvic or gynecological surgeries, including hysterectomy, which involves removing the uterus, or in place of tubal ligation, which involves tying or sealing off the fallopian pipes.
The ovaries and fallopian tubes remain intact during an OS procedure. This allows for natural hormone production.
Effectiveness of Fallopian Tube removal
In February 2022, a clinical study published to determine whether salpingectomy is effective in preventing ovarian carcinoma was published. The study compared the observed and expected rates of ovarian carcinoma among those who had fallopian tubes removed with those who underwent pelvic surgery or gynecological procedure between 2008 and 2017.
The study showed that the removal group experienced significantly fewer epithelial and serious ovarian carcinomas than was expected based on the rate of occurrence in the control group. This suggests that opportunistic ovarian salpingectomy is a safe, effective and efficient way to reduce ovarian carcinoma risk.
Who Should Consider Fallopian tube removal?
Not all women should have their fallopian tubes removed. Women with a high-risk of developing ovarian carcinoma, including those with a family or personal history of the disease or who carry certain genetic mutations, are best suited for fallopian tube removal.
Women planning to undergo a pelvic surgery, gynecological operation or other pelvic surgery after childbearing may consider salpingectomy.
Your healthcare provider can help you determine whether fallopian tubes removal is right for you by discussing the benefits and risks. Your healthcare provider will help you assess your risk factors for ovarian carcinoma and give you advice on whether fallopian tubes removal is the right option for you.