Removal of ectopic pregnancy

What is ectopic pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy develops on the outside of the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tubes. Removal of the ectopic pregnancy can be done via keyhole surgery or sometimes by an open (laparotomy) procedure. Usually the entire affected tube is removed. This decreases the risk of having another ectopic pregnancy. Sometimes it is possible for an ectopic pregnancy to be removed by incising the fallopian tube and suction of pregnancy tissue. This procedure would save the affected tube however increase the risk of having another ectopic pregnancy on the same spot.

Recovery

The procedure is done under general anaesthesia in an operating theatre. You will stay in the hospital for at least one night, possibly longer depending how quick your recovery is.
You will have a follow up appointment in 6 weeks to make sure you have completely recovered.

What are the risks?

There are known complications to this procedure:

• Bleeding, requiring a blood transfusion
• Injury to the bladder, bowel, ureter; requiring further surgery to correct any problems.
• Infection of the womb, fallopian tubes, skin or bladder requiring antibiotics.
• Incomplete removal of pregnancy tissue requiring further treatment.
• Adhesion formation.
• Trapped gas causing berating and heart problems.
• Problems with wound healing.