Salpingectomy for the Prevention of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: Clinical Practice Update

The October 2026 Clinical Practice Update from the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) reinforces and expands the role of bilateral salpingectomy as a primary prevention strategy for epithelial ovarian cancer. Grounded in evolving pathologic evidence that identifies the fallopian tubes as the site of origin for many ovarian carcinomas, the update advocates for the performance of opportunistic salpingectomy during both gynecologic and nongynecologic abdominopelvic surgeries. Key findings indicate that bilateral salpingectomy reduces the risk of subsequent ovarian cancer by approximately 50%. The guidance emphasizes discussing salpingectomy with patients undergoing hysterectomy, those seeking permanent contraception, and—in a significant expansion of previous guidance—those undergoing unrelated abdominal procedures such as cholecystectomy. This strategy is supported by the Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) as a cost-effective means of reducing cancer-related mortality and associated financial toxicity for patients.

Shalowitz, D., & Verma, N. (2026). Salpingectomy for the Prevention of Epithelial Ovarian CancerObstetrics & Gynecology https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0000000000006400