What is the primary management option for an ectopic pregnancy?

Prepare for the Multi-Specialty Recruitment Assessment (MSRA) 2025. Study with engaging flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question providing hints and explanations. Excel in your exam!

The primary management option for an ectopic pregnancy is salpingectomy, which involves the surgical removal of the affected fallopian tube where the ectopic pregnancy has occurred. This approach is often preferred, particularly in cases where the woman is hemodynamically stable and the ectopic pregnancy is not too large or without significant complications.

Salpingectomy is beneficial as it reduces the risk of recurrent ectopic pregnancies because it removes the entire tube, eliminating the site for future ectopic occurrences. It is also a definitive treatment, as it addresses any potential complications that could arise from the ectopic pregnancy, such as rupture and internal bleeding.

While other management options, such as salpingotomy (which involves removing the ectopic pregnancy but preserving the tube), laparotomy (an open surgical procedure), and medical management with methotrexate (a medication that helps dissolve the pregnancy tissue), can be appropriate in certain situations, salpingectomy is generally favored due to its effectiveness in ensuring complete management of the ectopic situation. Salpingotomy may be considered in younger women or those wishing to preserve fertility, but its success rates for preventing future ectopic pregnancies are lower than salpingectomy. Laparotomy is typically reserved for more complicated cases or when other minimally invasive options

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy