A bilateral Salpingo Oophorectomy is the removal of the fallopian tubes and the ovaries.

Sometimes only one side needs removing in which case the surgery would be described as a Right or Left Salpingo Oopherectomy.

Needing to remove a cyst is the most common reason for an oophorectomy.

The surgeon inserts a laparoscope (a thin telescope) into the upper abdomen via two to three small incisions. Gas is pumped into the abdomen to allow the surgeon to see clearly and the tube(s) and either both or one ovary are removed.

You should be able to leave the hospital on the same day as your operation, although you should not drive yourself home and should stay in the company of a responsible adult for the next 24 hours.