Tubal Reversal

This is a procedure performed on women who have had their tubes “tied,” and is their only cause for infertility.

Tubal ligation reversal (reanastomosis) is a surgical procedure, which can restore the function of fallopian tubes after tubal ligation. Pregnancy rates in the range of 70% are achieved.

Reversal operations are performed using microsurgical techniques, in which loupes (special magnifying eyeglasses) are used to visualize and reconnect the tiny hollow center portion of the fallopian tubes. Microsurgery also uses suture finer than a hair, the smallest possible incisions (approximately 3 inches), microsurgical instruments and non-traumatic tissue handling techniques. Patients go home the same day.

The tubal reversal procedure, performed via mini-laparotomy (small incision), is an outpatient surgery, with quick recovery, minimal risk, and a high success rate.

Microsurgical techniques are used throughout the operation, beginning at the skin. A small “bikini” incision (usually 6 to 7 centimeters) is made just above and parallel to the pubic bone. To minimize postoperative pain the use of self-retaining retractors is avoided. Further, the pelvic organs are constantly irrigated using a heparinized saline solution to prevent postoperative adhesion formation.

The above result in minimal bleeding, tissue trauma, and minimal post-operative pain, all of which expedite recovery.

As with all surgeries, there are risks, but with these microsurgical procedures, the postoperative complication rate after tubal reversal is less than 1/1000. Our success rate for reanastomosing (opening and reconnecting) the tubes is over 90 percent, and the pregnancy rate is 70 percent.

Patients are typically discharged from the outpatient surgery center within two to four hours and can expect to resume normal activities within one to two weeks depending on the patients' job. This differs from the typical approach to tubal reversal, which requires a one to three-day hospital stay and a four to six-week recovery.

Patients best suited for the procedure are less than 40 years old, who have had a postpartum tubal ligation; however other types of tubal can easily be reversed depending on the type of procedure performed.

In summary, in the appropriately selected patient population, a tubal reversal is effective, with excellent pregnancy rates; has a fast recovery time, very few complications, and is well tolerated. Women have had this procedure from all over the country and are very satisfied with their care and ultimate results. Call Chicago Infertility Associates today for a FREE consultation.