Opportunistic Salpingectomy during Cholecystectomy Is Safe, Cost-Effective Way to Reduce Ovarian Cancer Rates

Population-Level Reduction in Ovarian Cancer Through Performance of Opportunistic Salpingectomy at the Time of Cholecystectomy. Wright JD, Chen L, Tymm C, et al. Ann Surg. September 2025.

This study provides compelling evidence supporting opportunistic salpingectomy as a viable ovarian cancer prevention strategy when performed during common non-gynecologic surgeries such as cholecystectomy. 

The authors modeled national data to estimate the reduction in ovarian cancer incidence if opportunistic salpingectomy were incorporated into cholecystectomy procedures in women aged 40 and older. Assuming a 65% reduction in ovarian cancer risk following salpingectomy, their simulation suggests that performing opportunistic salpingectomy in only 40% of eligible females over the age of 40 could prevent 349 ovarian cancer cases over 15 years, demonstrating a meaningful potential impact at the population level.

The practicality of integrating opportunistic salpingectomy into cholecystectomy is emphasized: prior pilot studies have shown the technique to be safe, feasible, and to add minimal operative time. Importantly, analyses indicate that opportunistic salpingectomy during cholecystectomy is cost-effective, supporting its economic and clinical viability. 

Despite these advantages, the study underscores significant barriers to implementation. Logistical issues such as operative time, billing, and dual-specialty coordination have impeded widespread adoption. 

Nonetheless, from a surgical and public health viewpoint, opportunistic salpingectomy during cholecystectomy represents a low-risk, cost-effective intervention with substantial potential to reduce ovarian cancer incidence and mortality. 

Resources on this topic from the Journal of the American College of Surgeons:

• General Surgeons Can Perform Opportunistic Salpingectomy to Reduce Ovarian Cancer Rates (ACS Brief Current Literature – April 29, 2025)
• Video: General Surgeons Can Perform Opportunistic Salpingectomy to Reduce Ovarian Cancer Rates (ACS Brief Multimedia – August 26, 2025)