| »CLICK TO VIEW TUBAL PREGNANCY SURGERY |
| Ectopic pregnancy (EP) (also called tubal pregnancy) occurs when a fertilized egg (ovum, embryo) implants at a site other than the endometrial lining of the uterus. The incidence of EP in 1992 was 108,000 or 19.7 per 1000 reported pregnancies. Four out of 10 ectopic pregnancies occur in women between 20 to 29 years old. Over 75% of these cases are caught before the 12th week of pregnancy. |
 With an Ectopic pregnancy, the embryo implants outside the uterus but continues to grow and expand. Occasionally, the ectopic pregnancy will simply deteriorate spontaneously and will be absorbed by the body. However, the tube may also rupture if not treated in time. This can cause many serious problems, especially bleeding, infection, infertility, and even death. Therefore, early diagnosis by ultasound and assessment of the woman's condition is critical in determining the appropriate care to maintain her safety and health. |
| The goals of treatment for EP are the preservation of the mother's safety, and the protection of her reproductive ability. The woman's condition must be ascertained to determine if immediate surgical intervention is required, or if a more conservative approach may safely be taken. |
| Ectopic pregnancy should be considered in any woman of reproductive age presenting with pain, abnormal bleeding or irregular periods. A simple blood pregnancy test (beta HCG and progesterone levels) early in pregnancy can be utilized to monitor the pregnancy. When the beta HCG reaches a certain level an ultrasound can be utilized to document whether the pregnancy is located within the uterus or outside the uterus (ectopic pregnancy). Once ectopic pregnancy is confirmed, medical therapy with methotrexate or surgical intervention can be utilized. |
| In most cases an outpatient laparoscopic surgical procedure can be performed. Depending on the site of the ectopic pregnancy and on whether the pregnancy is ruptured or intact, removal of the pregnancy with preservation of the tube can be accomplished. When the tube is ruptured, laparoscopic removal of the tube is often necessary. |
| Go To Top |
