Tubal Reversal

Candidates for sterilization reversal are individuals who have had a previous surgical sterilization where the fallopian tubes may have been tied, cut or burned. Some remaining tube must be present for the procedure to be performed. If an inadequate amount of tube is present for the surgery, a technique called in vitro fertilization is the only option for achieving a pregnancy.

The chances for successful pregnancy depend on how much tube is remaining and whether there are other problems such as menstrual irregularity, endometriosis or a low sperm count. Most patients undergoing the surgery can expect a 60-80% chance for pregnancy within one year. There is also a 15% risk of ectopic (tubal) pregnancy after sterilization reversal which can be life threatening if undiagnosed and untreated.

The surgery is performed as an inpatient. Typically, there is a 1-2 day hospital stay following the procedure. Most women are off from work between 2-4 weeks after the operation. The surgery is performed under an operating microscope to improve success rates.

Most insurance companies do not pay for this procedure as they consider it elective although a few companies do provide coverage.