Tubal Ligation
Alternate Names : Sterilization Surgery - Female, Tubal Sterilization
Definition A tubal ligation is a surgery to "tie the tubes" (fallopian tubes) of a woman which causes permanent sterility by preventing transport of the egg (ovum) to the uterus, and by blocking the passage of sperm up the tube to the ovulating ovary where fertilization normally occurs.
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Overview & Description
Tubal ligation is done in the hospital or in an outpatient surgical clinic while the patient is under anesthesia. One or two small incisions are made in the abdomen (usually near the navel), and a device similar to a small telescope on a flexible tube (called a laparoscope) is inserted.
Using instruments that are inserted through the laparoscope, the tubes (fallopian tubes) are coagulated (burned), sealed shut with cautery, or with a small clip placed on the tube. The skin incision is then stitched closed. The patient is able to return home within a few hours after the procedure.
Tubal ligation can also be performed immediately after childbirth through a small incision near the navel or during a cesarean section.
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