TREATMENT OF TUBAL PREGNANCY 

What is a minimally invasive treatment of tubal pregnancy?

A minimally invasive treatment of tubal pregnancy is a surgical procedure to remove a pregnancy that has grown outside of the uterus. A telescope camera is inserted through a small incision in the navel. Two to three other specialized surgical instruments are inserted through tiny incisions made in the lower belly.

What are the advantages of a minimally invasive treatment of tubal pregnancy?

With minimally invasive treatment of tubal pregnancy, only tiny incisions are made. As a result, there is less blood loss, less scarring, and less post-operative pain. The recovery time is significantly shorter than after traditional surgery.

Who should have a minimally invasive treatment of tubal pregnancy?

1 out of 100 pregnancies grow outside a woman’s uterus, usually in the fallopian tube.  The tube is only able to contain the pregnancy for a few weeks before it becomes painful, bleeds or bursts.  Some women with tubal pregnancies bleed internally, which can threaten their lives.  When a tubal pregnancy is diagnosed early, it is usually treated with medication, but some women with tubal pregnancies choose or need to have surgery instead.

What preparations will be needed prior to surgery?

The surgeon may have the patient see a primary care doctor prior to surgery to make sure there are no medical conditions that may cause a problem with the surgery.  There will be a pre-op appointment prior to the day of surgery that will include a history and physical examination, possible blood samples, possible EKG, and a visit with a member of anesthesia department.  Patients should not eat of anything after midnight on the night before surgery.

What type of anesthesia will be required?

This procedure is usually done under general anesthesia.

Is there a hospital stay after surgery?

Most minimally invasive treatments of tubal pregnancy are performed on an outpatient basis. The patient will arrive about 2 hours prior to surgery and often leave 1-2 hours after the surgery is finished.

What kind of a recovery can be expected?

Patients can expect to return to work within 1-2 weeks after surgery.