Tubal Reversal Operation
The tubal reversal operation, also called tubal anastamosis or reanastamosis, is a surgical procedure done to reconnect a woman's fallopian tubes after a tubal ligation. The fallopian tubes are repaired with the use of an operating microscope at 10 times or greater magnification. Special micro-instruments and sutures allow the tube to be freed from its scar and adhesions and then sewn together to restore patency of the severed ends.
The tubal repair is performed in two layers, using 8-0 Vicryl suture. Patency of the fallopian tubes is verified by passage of blue dye injected through the cervix of the uterus at the time of surgery.
Operating time varies from 90 to 120 minutes, and the hospital stay varies from 8 to 24 hours. The procedure is usually without complications, with the exception of pain and occasional postoperative nausea.
The tubal reversal procedure is performed through an open abdominal incision, usually in what is commonly called a "bikini cut." I do not do tubal reversals through the laparoscope (belly button). An operating microscope is used to magnify the tubes. The incision is closed with sutures that will dissolve by themselves, so there is no need for staples or stitches to be removed. The sutures will be covered with a surgical dressing that looks like Saran Wrap; this should be removed seven days after surgery (sooner if it appears to be irritating the skin). The majority of patients are able to return to work in two weeks.
Most patients have not had any problems traveling within 24 to 48 hours of their surgery. After the surgery is done, you will spend about an hour in the recovery room, and then will go to a private room. When you are able to eat or drink a little bit, and urinate, you will be allowed to leave the hospital. I prefer that you not leave Jackson until the day after surgery. If you are nauseated or have pain that is not relieved by pain medicine taken by mouth, you may stay in the hospital overnight. You will be given a prescription for pain medication (for post-operative use) on the day that you come in the office for your preoperative visit. This is not covered in the $5,400 cost; the generic form of pain medication usually is about $20-$30.
You can read comments from patients that have become pregnant following a tubal reversal procedure.
Lisa Williams Rogers, M.D., received her undergraduate degree from Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, and her medical degree from the University of Tennessee in Memphis. While in medical school, she received the surgery award for her class. Her residency in obstetrics and gynecology was completed at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 1991. She is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. She is also a member of the American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Baptist Medical and Dental Fellowship.