Ovarian cancer is often called “the silent killer” because it usually doesn’t show symptoms until it is in a late stage and very hard to treat.
Each year, it takes the lives of more than 12,000 women in the United States. But doctors now say that a simple, low-risk step during certain surgeries could prevent many of these deaths.
Experts from the American College of Surgeons (ACS) say that removing the fallopian tubes—small tubes next to the ovaries—during other planned surgeries could stop ovarian cancer before it starts.
This step, called opportunistic salpingectomy, takes only 5 to 13 extra minutes and can be done during common surgeries like hernia repairs or gallbladder removals in women who no longer want to have children.
Research now shows that many deadly types of ovarian cancer actually begin in the fallopian tubes. These tubes aren’t needed after a woman finishes having children, so removing them during another surgery can be a safe and effective way to lower cancer risk.
Dr. Joseph Sakran from Johns Hopkins Medicine explained that ovarian cancer is usually detected too late for effective treatment. By offering fallopian tube removal during other surgeries, general surgeons—not just gynecologists—can play an important role in preventing this deadly disease.
The idea was discussed at the ACS Clinical Congress 2025 in Chicago. Panel experts recommended that women age 45 and older, who are at average risk for ovarian cancer, should be informed about this option if they’re having pelvic or abdominal surgery. “Average risk” means they don’t have a strong family history or known genetic risks.
If this procedure is included in just 60% of eligible surgeries, experts say it could save nearly 6,000 lives every year.
Dr. Kara Long, a cancer surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering, said that removing the fallopian tubes during planned surgeries could prevent up to 80% of the most dangerous types of ovarian cancer. She added that preserving the ovaries, which still make important hormones, helps maintain health after the surgery.
Dr. Rebecca Stone from Johns Hopkins pointed out that removing fallopian tubes is similar to other preventive procedures doctors already perform, like removing polyps to prevent colon cancer. She believes more people need to hear about this option, not just in hospitals but in everyday conversations.
Groups like the American Cancer Society and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists now support offering opportunistic salpingectomy more widely. Still, more training for surgeons and better insurance coverage are needed. A new medical billing code exists for the procedure, but not all insurance plans cover it yet.
Doctors also stress the importance of patient education. While the risks are low, the procedure permanently prevents natural pregnancy. Women should talk with their doctors to understand both the benefits and any possible downsides.
For many surgeons and cancer experts, this is one of the best chances we have to prevent ovarian cancer. It’s a simple step that could save thousands of lives and reduce suffering for women and their families.
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