Fallopian Tube Removal During Non-Gynaecological Intra-Abdominal Surgery: An Opportunity to Prevent High Grade Serous Tubo-Ovarian Cancer.

BACKGROUND

Opportunistic salpingectomy (OS) is increasingly recommended during gynaecological surgery for primary prevention of ovarian, tubal and peritoneal cancer. Emerging evidence supports its feasibility during abdominal surgery for non-gynaecological indications; however, uptake remains limited.

METHODS

ShiELD (Opportunistic Salpingectomy at the time of Elective Abdominal Surgery) was a pilot study conducted at a tertiary level institution involving non-gynaecological surgeons. Participants completed a Likert-scale assessment of knowledge, attitudes, perceived barriers and confidence regarding OS before and after an intervention, which was viewing a targeted educational video. Responses were analysed descriptively, with Likert categories collapsed into agreement versus non-agreement.

RESULTS

Forty surgeons completed the survey. Baseline understanding of OS was high (76.9%), but knowledge of complications (38.4%), surgical technique (33.4%) and patient selection (28.2%) was limited. Only 20.5% felt comfortable performing OS independently. Following the intervention, agreement improved across all domains, including understanding of OS (100%), complications (80.0%), surgical technique (89.8%) and patient selection (72.5%). Comfort performing OS independently increased to 55.0%, while discomfort with consent decreased from 66.6% to 40.0%.

CONCLUSION

A brief educational intervention significantly improved non-gynaecological surgeons' knowledge, confidence and willingness to consider opportunistic salpingectomy. Education represents a critical step toward broader implementation of OS in non-gynaecological surgical practice.