The removal of fallopian tubes has no adverse effect on subsequent ovarian function in rabbits

The effect of bilateral salpingectomy on ovarian function was studied in the rabbit. Nine rabbits underwent a microsurgical removal of both fallopian tubes, and nine other rabbits underwent sham operations. Four weeks after surgery the rabbits were mated, and the number of ovulation sites were recorded 18 hours after mating. Serum progesterone (P) levels were also determined prior to the operation and at 6 days and 8 days after mating. Eight days after mating the ovaries were recovered, and the corpora lutea were removed and weighted. The mean number and weights of corpora lutea as well as serum P levels did not differ significantly between the groups. These findings suggest that the absence of fallopian tubes has no effect on subsequent ovulatory function in this animal model.