Surgical management of ectopic pregnancy

Surgery remains an acceptable, and sometimes necessary, modality for the treatment of ectopic pregnancy. Laparoscopy is the preferred method of access, yet controversy remains regarding the optimal procedure and postoperative management. Generally, salpingostomy is employed with the goal of maintaining fertility, although data to support this tenet are lacking. In most cases, the decision to perform conservative versus radical surgery is on the basis of the patient's history, her desire for future fertility, and surgical findings. The procedures of salpingostomy and salpingectomy, techniques to prevent and control blood loss at the time of surgery, and surgical options for nontubal ectopic pregnancies are reviewed.