Concept of opportunistic bilateral salpingectomy in a sample of Mexican gynecologists. What should residents be trained on?

Abstract

Background

Ovarian cancer is the fifth deadliest cancer among women. There is no effective screening method. It has been suggested that ovarian cancer originates from precursor lesions in the fimbriae of the fallopian tubes.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge of opportunistic bilateral salpingectomy by gynecologists.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out and a survey was sent electronically to gynecologists and gynecology residents. Demographic characteristics as well as questions of interest related to clinical practice and indication for surgery were included.

Results

52 subjects were included, 21 women and 31 men, with a mean age of 40.7 years. Thirty-five board certified gynecologists, as well as 17 gynecology residents, were included as part of the total survey group. Thirty-six individuals (69.2%) reported performing elective salpingectomy. The motivation they had to perform salpingectomy as a method of sterilization was: “reduction in the risk of ovarian cancer in the future” (55.6%). The indication for elective salpingectomy while performing other procedures was: “to prevent ovarian cancer” (61.1%). Certified gynecologists (42.9%) as well as residents (41.1%) considered “transvaginal ultrasound screening” as the best primary prevention method for ovarian cancer in low-risk women.

Conclusions

Opportunistic bilateral salpingectomy is safe and cost-effective. However, when gynecologists are interviewed to find out their level of knowledge, there is poor acceptance of opportunistic bilateral salpingectomy in Mexico. A training strategy should be designed in the gynecology residency in order to motivate ovarian cancer prevention.