Tubaligation Explained

What is tubaligation?

Tubaligation is the general term for any surgical procedure that blocks the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy. 

Ligation means to apply a ligature or tie, and tubal ligation is often called "tying" the tubes.  Many people picture tying a fallopian tube like tying a shoe lace or a bow, and wonder why the tube can't simply be untied to restore fertility.  To explain this, the anatomy of the normal fallopian tube is shown on this page. 

Fallopian tube anatomy

The fallopian tube is a narrow muscular organ arising from the uterus and ending just next to the ovary.  The inner tubal lining is rich in cilia, the microscopic hair-like projections that beat in waves and move the egg to the uterus. 

The fallopian tube is about 10 cm (4 inches) long and consists of several segments.  Starting from the uterus and proceeding toward the ovary, these are the:

• Interstitial segment – passes from the endometrial cavity through the uterine muscle.
  
• Isthmic segment - narrow muscular segment by the uterus.
  
• Ampullary segment – wider middle segment.
  
• Infundibular segment – funnel shaped segment near the ovary.
  
• Fimbrial segment - ciliary lining facing the ovary.
  

The tubaligation procedures described in the tubal reversal web site are

Pomeroy Technique
Tubal ligation and resection (removal) of a portion of the fallopian tube is the most frequent method of blocking the tubes. This involves tying a segment of tube and removing it.

Tubal Rings and Clips
the Falope ring, Yoon ring, or Lay loop, and the spring clip or Hulka Clip cause mechanical obstruction of the fallopian tube

Monopolar and Bipolar Tubal Coagulation
With these methods of tubal ligation, electrical current is used to cause coagulation

Tubaligation and resection
Includes explanation of Parkland and Irving Procedures

Fimbriectomy
Tubal Reversal is Possible after Fimbriectomy

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