How to Understand a Tubal Pathology Report

A tubal pathology report is issued by a doctor after studying the tissue of the portion of fallopian tubes removed after a tubal ligation. The report tells the length of the portions of tube examined and any unusual findings. These reports are often used to determine whether your ligation can be reversed.

Instructions

• 1

  Understand the numbers. The pathology report will state the length and number of tubes examined. In almost every case, a tubal ligation involves snipping off some of each fallopian tube, so most reports will say that two tubes were examined. The measurement in centimeters is the length of tube that was cut. Generally, the longer the length of the tubes removed, the more difficult ligation reversal will be.

• 2

  Look for the word "fimbral." If the pathology report states that fimbral ends were present on each tube, that means your ligation was actually a fimbriectomy, in which the portion of the tubes closest to the ovary were removed. This portion of the tube is known as the "fimbral end," named for the fimbrae, or tiny hairs, that are there to draw an egg from the ovary into the fallopian tubes. You will need a fimbriectomy reversal, also known as a microsurgical salpingostomy, if you wish to become pregnant after this procedure. In this surgery, a new opening will be created in your fallopian tubes.

• 3

  Be aware of abnormal findings. When a pathologist examines your tissue, if they see abnormal cell growth or damaged tissue, they will document these findings in the report. Although your doctor will almost certainly discuss any abnormal finding and appropriate courses of action with you, if you see an abnormal finding listed in your pathology report and weren't made aware of this by your doctor, speak up. Abnormal findings could indicate a number of issues, including infection or cancer.