Salpingotomy

SALPINGOTOMY, operation for removal of the Fallopian tube affected by inflammatory disease or neoplasm (Figures 1-4). First performed by Hegar,

Figure 1. Diagram of removal of one tube (right) and the tube together with the ovary (left). (After Ott.)

then by Lawson-Tait and Martin (Hegar-1876, Lawson-Tait, Martin). At present, along with complete removal of the tube, there also exist a number of conservative methods

Figure 2. Beuttner's operation: wedge-shaped resection of the uterine fundus corresponding to the root of the tubes. The uterine segment is severed along the median line and each tube is removed from inside outward together with the corresponding segment of the uterus. (After Faure-Siredey.)

of operations that aim to preserve the healthy part of the tube. On the other hand, in view of the fact that simple S. with leaving the stump of an infected tube can be a cause of subsequent infection, some propose to excise during salpingotomy also the tubal angle of the uterus or even to remove with the tubes (without opening them) and the fundus of the uterus (resecting it wedge-shaped). Beuttner's operation, however, does not meet with general approval; there are authors,

Figure 3. Beuttner's operation. The fundus of the uterus and both tubes have been removed. (After Faure-Snedey.)

who believe that although it frees the woman from the fundus of the uterus, often infected, it is a more difficult and risky

Figure 4. Beuttner's operation. Suture of the uterus and peritonization. (After Faure-Siredey.)

operation than simple removal of the tubes. In appropriate cases, the radical operation—salpingotomy + complete removal of the uterus—is also indicated.